Strictly star Gorka Marquez announced as latest pro dancer to leave show after 10 years
Fans are gutted by the newsStrictly Come Dancing have announced that dancer Gorka Marquez will be leaving the show after 10 years.
Spanish pro Gorka joined the show in 2016 and has never won the Glitterball Trophy. However, he came close several times with Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith and Helen Skelton.
The news of his departure arrived soon after Michelle Tsiakkas, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova and Luba Mushtuk announced they were leaving.
Strictly Come Dancing star Gorka Marquez has left the show
In an Instagram post shared today (April 28), Strictly announced in a statement: “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.”
It continued: “As well as being part of our Strictly family, it’s been heartwarming to see him start his own family during his time with us and that journey reflects the same warmth, commitment and character he has always brought to the show.”
The statement concluded: “We are incredibly grateful for his dedication to the series over the years and are so proud to see him shining in his judging role on Bailando con las Estrellas in Spain. We wish him continued success and happiness in everything that’s to come.”
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‘Now it’s time to take a step back’
Following the announcement, Gorka also shared his own statement on his page and revealed his reason for leaving.
“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 said.
“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.”
Even though he won’t return later this year, Gorka said he still “can’t wait to dance on the Strictly Pro Tour starting this week and continue being part of this incredible family”.
Gorka continued: “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. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey.”
He then signed off the heartfelt note with “Keep dancing.”
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‘Absolutely gutted!’
Following the news, fans of the show were heartbroken.
“Farewell Gorka, I’m going to miss you,” one user wrote.
“Gutted. Strictly just won’t be the same, but I’m so glad I still have the pod to listen to,” another person shared.
“Aw absolutely gutted! Will miss seeing you on the show so much! Look forward to seeing you on the pro tour in Manchester and Brighton! Good luck for the future,” a third remarked.
“Aww Gorka I’m sad you are leaving SCD. My favourite male pro. I wish all the luck in the world in your new adventures,” a fourth said.
