Gorka Marquez has announced his departure from Strictly Come Dancing, becoming the fifth professional dancer to exit the show this series. The 34-year-old dancer revealed his decision in an emotional Instagram post, sharing a black-and-white photograph of himself walking away from the camera, dressed in a suit and dance shoes, heading towards a studio door.
Emotional Farewell
In his caption, Marquez wrote: "After last year's decision to step down as a full-time professional due to scheduling conflicts between Strictly and Dancing with the Stars Spain, I've decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing." He added: "I will always be incredibly grateful to Strictly 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."
Future Plans
Marquez confirmed he would still participate in the upcoming Strictly Pro Tour, stating: "Although I'm stepping away from the dance floor, I can't wait to dance on the Strictly Pro Tour starting this week and continue being part of this incredible family." He also hinted at a potential judging role, 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."
Strictly Journey
Marquez joined Strictly in 2016, partnering with Tameka Empson. Over the years, he danced with Alexandra Burke, Katie Piper, Maisie Smith, Katie McGlynn, Helen Skelton, Nikita Kanda, and Dr Punam Krishan. Despite being a fan favorite, he was without a partner last year due to clashes with his Dancing With The Stars Spain commitments.
Personal Life
During his second year on the show, Marquez met his partner Gemma Atkinson, who was paired with Aljaz Skorjanec. The couple now have children together. Atkinson responded to his post: "Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! Exciting times ahead." Fellow Strictly stars also commented, including Johannes Radebe and Nancy Xu.
Show Overhaul
Marquez's departure follows reports that Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, and Michelle Tsiakkas have also been axed. Neil Jones remains the only reportedly axed professional still connected to the show. Strictly Come Dancing is undergoing a significant overhaul, with new presenters set to replace long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who confirmed their departures in 2025.
A BBC spokesperson said: "We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gorka for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the years. Since joining the show in 2016, Gorka has been a hugely popular member of the professional dancer line-up, known for his passion, charisma and exceptional choreography."
