BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans say 'your turn' as popular pro responds to Aljaz Skorjanec return after two years

Strictly Come Dancing fans have named who they want to follow Aljaz Skorjenc's footsteps and head back into the ballroom after his return was confirmed. The dancer will return to the BBC One dance contest this year, two years after he quit.

Aljaz, a 19-time Slovenian champion in Ballroom, Latin and Ten Dance, was part of the show for nine series before leaving before the 2022 series. Fans will remember he lifted the Glitterball in his debut year with Abbey Clancy in 2013 before later being runner-up in 2017 with celebrity partner, and now friend, Gemma Atkinson.

It was then revealed that the fan-favourite dancer ill be waltzing back onto our screens for the 20th year of Strictly when it returns this autumn.

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After he revealed the news live on The One Show, Aljaz then took to social media and shared a snap of himself appearing all suited and booted. Alongside it, Aljaz wrote: "Here it goes... @bbcstrictly is back for the 20th anniversary this autumn…. and so am I!"

He added: "So grateful for this very special opportunity. Can’t wait to be back in that iconic ballroom, and to get the chance for my little one to see me on the best show on TV #lifeisbeautiful #keepdancing."

But it wasn't just fans expressing their delight as Aljaz Strictly co-stars and famous pals were rushing to share their messages. Gorka Marquez commented: "There he is!!!" while Amy Dowden replied:" Get in! I’m buzzzzzzzzing Ali Ali Ali." Neil Jones posted: "It’s like you never left. Welcome back GOAT." Carlos Gu typed: "What an amazing news. Welcome back “new” bie."

Nadiya Bychkova wrote: "The best news ever friend." Nikita Kuzmin shared: "ALI ALI ALI! HOI HOI HOI! Banana shapes are back like they never left." Jowita Przystał responded: "Get in !!!!!!! Yes Ali looking forward to dance with you again!" Dianne Buswell added: "Soooooooo excited omg."

Former Strictly star Kevin Clifton, meanwhile, shared a snap of the pair to his own Instagram page and congratulated his friend on the news. He wrote: "Very excited fot the return of my boy @aljazskorjanec to @bbcstrictly. A winner in his first year, great dancer, great teacher and a lovely guy. Can’t wait to watch."

But it wasn't long before the dancer, who is now a regular on the West End stage but still a keen Strictly viewer, was flooded with comments about his own possible return to the much-loved BBC show.

@purpleis27 said: "Come on King Kevin.....we're waiting on you returning too." @kirstie.goodwin79 commented: "Your turn to come back now then Kevin. Reckon if they did a poll asking whos the favourite pro of all time you would win it hands down!" @sarahcattle1 wrote: "Love that he’s returning but would love to see you back aswell,that would be the best news ever."

@kazman6411 replied: "We want King Kevin back on Strictly." @tracekazjacko posted: "Come on Kevin . We need you back too!!!" @billie_jade_ shared: "Waiting for you to come back." @gilly_bean1 added: "Delighted he is coming back and it would be a double delight if you Kevin also returned."