Gorka Marquez is two-stepping away from Strictly Come Dancing after 10 years as a professional.
The Spanish star, 35, joined the BBC series in 2016, and is the latest dancer to leave following a cast overhaul that also led to the departures of Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas.
However, Marquez said it was his own decision to quit in a statement announcing the news. He wrote on Tuesday (28 April): “I’ve decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.”
He said he will always be incredibly grateful to the show and the BBC “for everything”.
“Being part of the show has been so much more than just a professional opportunity – over the past 10 years, it allowed me to build a career from my passion, find love, start a family, and make lifelong friends. For that, I will forever be thankful.”
Marquez said he will enjoy watching from the sidelines and hinted he could one day return as a judge, writing: “Now it’s time to take a step back, enjoy the sidelines… and hopefully hold up a few paddles and give out some tens along the way.”
Last year, the dancer had a reduced stint on the show while he appeared on the judging panel of Bailando con las Estrellas, Spain’s version of Strictly. He will continue in that role later this year, with the BBC stating: “We wish him continued success and happiness in everything that’s to come.”
The show’s official Instagram account hailed him as “a hugely popular” part of the show, writing: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gorka for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the years.”
It praised his passion, charisma and exceptional choreography, stating: “As well as being part of our Strictly family, it’s been heartwarming to see him start his own family during his time with us and that journey reflects the same warmth, commitment and character he has always brought to the show.”
Marquez met his partner, influencer and presenter Gemma Atkinson, on the show in 2017. They have two children together. In response to the news, Atkinson wrote on Instagram: “Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! Exciting times ahead.”
He has been a Strictly finalist three times, with celebrities Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton.
