Janette Manrara on why she wants daughter Lyra to be just like one of this year’s Strictly stars

In addition to partner Tasha Ghouri, Janette Manrara has been spending the last few months watching her husband Aljakorjanec compete in this series of Strictly Come Dancing. And Janette has not only been blown away by their performances, but she’s also a big fan of Tasha’s personality.

Revealing that she would love her daughter, Lyra, who she and Aljaz welcomed in July last year, to turn out like former Love Island star Tasha, Janette told OK! : “Yes, I said to her – because I really meant it – that if Lyra grows up to be like Tasha, who’s so humble and kind and gracious, I’ll be the happiest mum in the world.

Tasha and Aljaz, who are aiming to win this year’s coveted Glitterball trophy, dedicated their American Smooth dance to baby Lyra earlier in the competition, which Janette admits left her emotionally sensitive. I was in tears! I’ve honestly loved watching Aljaž back on the show. I fell in love with him watching him dance when we first met and had other partners with us. And for our family to now be his wife, having a young girl watch her father dance on television is such a lovely thing.

Before Janette and Aljaz started the program, Janette and Aljaz met and fell in love, but they both gave up on the relationship. We always say that with Strictly Come Dancing, there’s no curse for us, it’s a Strictly blessing because it really saved our relationship, “Janette explained to Best magazine earlier this year. She continued, “Strictly came along and offered us a spot as professional dancers,” which was the biggest blessing of our relationship. We stayed together and got married a lot from the show.

Janette and Aljaz are also getting ready for Christmas with their little one in addition to Strictly. And this year, Janette is working with Action For Children’s Secret Santa campaign.

Talking to OK!, she said of the partnership:” I feel like I’ve changed so much after becoming a mother to Lyra]born in July 2023], but I’ve always wanted to help different charities and support children. Action For Children accomplishes a lot, and it doesn’t just address one issue. They provide food and clothing, of course, but they also provide things like mental health services and financial support. Every child requires a different kind of support, and they provide it in many different ways.

Janette visited the Giving Grotto at Action For Children Secret Santa. To become a Secret Santa and help support vulnerable children, donate at iamsanta. org. uk

Source: Mirror