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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Mollie Quirk

Strictly's Aljaz accused of 'verbally lashing out' and 'upsetting crew' amid shock exit

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec, who recently quit the BBC show, reportedly lashed out and upset members of the crew during the last series.

The 32-year-old hunk and fan favourite announced that he would be departing the dancing competition on Monday, after nine years of strutting his stuff on the dance floor.

In the most recent series of the show he was partnered with Dragons' Den's Sara Davis

Now The Sun reports that there were some "incidents" that took place during the last season that involved the dancer and "left some of the crew really upset".

A source told the paper: "He verbally lashed out at various staff members behind the scenes in what some thought was an unnecessarily aggressive manner."

They added: "Aljaz was seen by some as arrogant and pompous too – and it left a bad taste in some of the staff’s mouths. Not many people will miss him."

The Slovenian born 19 time ballroom champion was a favourite among viewers, which is why his statement revealing his departure from the show came as such a shock to so many.

Taking to Instagram to share a collage of sweet snaps and memories from his time on the show, he penned a lengthy caption which broke the news to his fans.

In his long caption he penned: "A little while ago I made the tough decision that Strictly 2021 would be my last. The show has given me an opportunity and freedom to create and express myself in front of millions of people every weekend for the last 9 years.

"The love and support I got from the team of producers was second to none."

He continued: "Being a part of a group of professionals that inspire and push you to be better every step of the way is humbling and I will carry that inspiration with me forever.

"Every year the lineup of dancers would change but one thing stayed the same, WE WERE THE BEST! And this is one thing that I know will never change on Strictly!"

He then gave a shout out to the backstage team and his "beautiful partners".

Aljaz Skorjanec and Sara Davies (BBC/Guy Levy)
Sara has remained close to Alijaz (Getty)

Concluding, he said: "And finally, thank YOU, the people that watch Strictly who have been so kind to me all these years.

"Every comment, vote, kind message never went unnoticed. You are the reason we all do it, thank you!

"I have lots of exciting stuff planned that I will fill you in on soon. I can't wait to see what the future holds!

"KEEEEEP DANCING! Aljaz x."

Fans of the pro dancer were quick to comment below the heartfelt post, with one writing: "Oh Alijaz you are my fave. Gutted for Strictly but excited for you!"

Another tagged a pal and penned: "What’s the point in watching Strictly now?"

While a third added an abundance of tearful emojis and penned: "Gosh Aljaz you will be missed so much. You are an amazing dancing and your personality is a huge shining star. Good luck for the future in everything that you do with your beautiful @jmanrara [his wife]."

Janette and Alijaz are married (jmanrara/Instagram)
The pair appear to be very loved-up (jmanrara/Instagram)

A spokesperson for Aljaz said: "Aljaz has the utmost respect for everyone working on the show and it is untrue to say he was forced out or acted in an aggressive manner at any time. It was Aljaz’s decision to leave the show after an incredible 9 years."

BBC and Strictly also released a statement which read: "Since lifting the glitterball with Abbey Clancy in his debut series he has become a firm favourite with viewers across the country.

“During his nine series he has provided us with some unforgettable moments on the show through his incredible choreography, passion for dance and heart of gold.

"He will be missed by his Strictly family, both on and off the dancefloor, and we wish him only the very best as he embarks on his next chapter."

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