Gorka Marquez has announced his decision to leave Strictly Come Dancing after spending ten years on the popular show, marking a notable change in the program’s professional lineup. The 35-year-old dancer revealed that the choice to step away was entirely his own, expressing readiness to “hang up” his dance shoes after a decade of involvement.
Reflecting on his time with the series, Marquez described the experience as far more than just a career opportunity. He highlighted how Strictly helped him establish his professional path, forge lasting friendships, and even start a family. While he plans to step back from the public eye, he intends to continue supporting the show from a distance.
Marquez joined Strictly in 2016 and quickly became a fan favourite, reaching the finals three times alongside celebrity partners such as Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton. His departure coincides with a broader reshuffle of the show’s professional dancers, as several others have also announced their exits.
Despite leaving Strictly, Marquez is not stepping away from television altogether. He will maintain his role as a judge on Spain’s Bailando con las Estrellas and suggested the possibility of returning to the show in a different capacity in the future.
On a personal note, Marquez’s time on Strictly significantly influenced his life beyond dance. He met Gemma Atkinson during the 2017 season, and the couple now share two children. Atkinson responded to his announcement with a supportive message, expressing optimism about the “exciting times ahead.”
The paid tribute to Marquez, describing him as a “hugely popular” figure within the Strictly family and commending his valuable contributions throughout his tenure on the show.
