Gorka Marquez’s departure from Strictly Come Dancing marks the end of a decade-long journey for the professional dancer, who announced his exit on Instagram on April 28, 2026. Over these ten years, he not only achieved great success in the dance competition but also found love and started a family.
Joining Strictly in 2016, Marquez quickly made a name for himself as a talented performer. He has been a finalist three times, partnering with celebrities such as Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton. His journey on the show has been punctuated by memorable performances and heartfelt moments.
In his announcement, Marquez expressed gratitude for his time on the show: “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.” He met his fiancée, Gemma Atkinson, during the show’s 2017 season, and they now share two children.
The BBC praised Marquez for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing, highlighting his talent and charisma that captivated audiences week after week. The announcement comes as he prepares to participate in the upcoming Strictly: The Professionals tour.
Marquez’s decision follows previous adjustments to his role; he stepped down as a full-time professional dancer due to scheduling conflicts with Dancing With The Stars in Spain. Now at age 35, he is ready to embrace new opportunities.
Looking ahead, Gorka hinted at potential future endeavors in dance—specifically a possible role as a judge on the Spanish version of the show. As fans reflect on his impactful decade with Strictly, they can expect to see him shine in new capacities.