Aljaž Škorjanec returns to Strictly amid misconduct controversies

In July 2024, Aljaž Škorjanec made headlines in the United Kingdom as he announced his return to the popular BBC series Strictly Come Dancing. This marked a significant moment as he became the first professional dancer ever invited back to the show after stepping away in 2022. His return coincided with the revelation that fellow dancer Giovanni Pernice would not be returning due to an ongoing misconduct investigation, hinting at deeper issues within the show's professional lineup. Aljaž, who is 34 years old, expressed his excitement about rejoining the Strictly family, emphasizing his absence had led him to miss all aspects of the show, despite also cherishing time spent with his wife and baby during his two-year break. However, controversy surrounded his comeback, particularly regarding the reactions of the cast and crew. Reports emerged that many were upset by Aljaž's return, largely due to his previous departure from the show following an incident described as 'shocking.' In that incident two years prior, Aljaž was alleged to have become very drunk during a nationwide tour and was involved in a serious altercation with a female dancer. Sources claimed that the crew and cast were baffled by the decision to bring him back, expressing their concerns about whether the BBC had properly considered the implications of his return amidst ongoing scrutiny of male professional dancers. Even as Aljaž defended his return by insisting he had 'replaced nobody,' the opinions regarding his actions have been polarized. While he was a celebrated figure within the show, the ongoing scrutiny of all professional dancers during this period left some doubt about the appropriateness of his return. With the discontent among cast and crew vocally expressed to various publications, the public is now left to ponder if this years' season of Strictly will be marred by similar controversies or if it will successfully focus on the dance performances that fans treasure. As Strictly Come Dancing advances into a new season, the atmosphere backstage has reportedly been tense due to the ongoing dialogues about past incidents among their male pros. The return of Aljaž Škorjanec falls into a larger narrative of changes and challenges confronting one of the UK's most popular television programs. As he rejoins the show's lineup, audiences and insiders alike are left contemplating what the future holds for the beloved series, particularly in light of the controversies it faces.