Gorka Marquez, a popular professional dancer on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, has confirmed he will not be returning to the show, with his partner Gemma Atkinson shedding light on the personal reasons behind his decision. Atkinson, a former Strictly contestant herself, explained that Marquez's choice was driven by a profound desire to be more present for their children, particularly as they grow.
According to Atkinson, the Spanish dancer experienced a sudden realisation about the significant moments he was missing with their daughter, Mia, and their newborn son, Thiago. The demanding schedule of Strictly Come Dancing, which typically involves months of intensive training and live performances, often requires dancers to be away from home for extended periods. This proved to be a critical factor in Marquez's decision to step away from the competitive ballroom.
Marquez joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2016 and quickly became a fan favourite, known for his energetic routines and charismatic personality. Over his tenure, he reached the coveted Grand Final twice, first with singer Alexandra Burke in 2017 and again with presenter Helen Skelton in 2022. His departure marks the end of an eight-year run on the hugely successful BBC One programme, which regularly garners millions of viewers and is a cornerstone of UK Saturday night television entertainment.
The announcement comes at a significant time for Marquez and Atkinson, who recently welcomed their second child, Thiago, in July 2023. The couple, who met on Strictly in 2017 when Atkinson was a contestant, became engaged in 2021. Their family-centric decision resonates with many in the UK who grapple with the challenges of balancing career ambitions with personal and family commitments, especially in demanding industries.
Strictly Come Dancing is a major cultural event in the UK, often recognised at the BAFTA Television Awards for its entertainment value and production quality. Its professional dancers are integral to its appeal, with many becoming household names. While Marquez's absence will undoubtedly be felt by fans, his decision underscores a growing trend where public figures openly prioritise well-being and family life over continuous high-profile work.
The BBC has yet to announce the full line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series, but Marquez's departure creates a significant vacancy. Fans can typically catch up on past Strictly Come Dancing series via BBC iPlayer, and the new series is expected to air in autumn, continuing its tradition of combining celebrity contestants with professional dancers in a glittering display of ballroom and Latin American dance.
Source: Gemma Atkinson via social media