Gorka Marquez announced he is leaving Strictly Come Dancing after ten years on April 28, 2026. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter, one that saw him evolve from a professional dancer to a beloved figure on BBC One.
Joining the show in 2016, Marquez quickly became a fan favorite. He made it to the finals three times with celebrities like Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton. His charisma and talent shone brightly in the competitive dance environment.
In his heartfelt Instagram post, he said, “I’ve decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.” This decision reflects not just a career move but a personal evolution as well—he found love with fiancée Gemma Atkinson on the show in 2017. Together, they now have two children.
Key moments during his time on Strictly:
- Joined Strictly in 2016 and became a finalist three times.
- Met Gemma Atkinson on the show; they now have two children.
- Praised by the BBC for his exceptional contributions over the years.
The BBC expressed gratitude for his work, stating, “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gorka for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the years.” This acknowledgment highlights how integral he has been to the show’s success.
Despite stepping back from the main competition, Marquez will still participate in the upcoming Strictly: The Professionals tour—a chance for him to continue sharing his passion with audiences. Observers speculate about his future, hinting at a potential role as a judge on the Spanish version of the show, Bailando con las Estrellas.
The dance world will feel his absence keenly. But for Gorka Marquez, this is just another step in an evolving journey—one filled with love, family, and new opportunities ahead.
You may also like
