Strictly’s Janette Manrara defends decision to return to work so soon after giving birth after she’s cruelly mum shamed
STRICTLY'S Janette Manrara has defended her decision to return to work so soon after giving birth and being cruelly mum shamed.
The Strictly It Takes Two host and former pro dancer on the show welcomed her first child, daughter Lyra Rose, with husband Aljaz Skorjanec at the end of July.
Janette, 39, decided to have a very short maternity leave, and earlier this month, she returned to work co-hosting Morning Live, just six weeks after Lyra's birth.
She will also be back on hosting duties of Strictly It Takes Two alongside new co-host Fleur East from Monday, September 25.
Janette's decision has left her open to criticism from some of her followers on social media, with many taking aim after she shared snaps backstage at Morning Live.
But in a new interview alongside Aljaz, 33, Janette stood by her choice and said: "I was excited to see everyone, but it was also scary because I was leaving Lyra for the first time and couldn’t wait to get home to her.
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"But I’m really proud of being able to get back into work, and Aljaz has been my number one cheerleader.
"It’s wonderful to know that a working mum can still be a great mum."
For his part, Aljaz - who quit Strictly in March last year after nine series - is excited to be a stay-at-home dad while Janette heads back to work.
Speaking about his career break, he said: "I can’t wait to do daddy daycare – it’s my favourite job ever.
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"I have waited to be a dad for so long and I feel very lucky to be able to spend so much time with my daughter."
The couple will also be taking their baby girl on the road in November when they tour their new show, Dancing in a Winter Wonderland.
Janette said: "The grandmas are going to come and help. We want to make things as easy as possible for Lyra, but we are excited that she’s going to be a part of it with us."
