Gorka Marquez announced he is leaving Strictly Come Dancing after 10 years. He made the announcement on Instagram on April 28, 2026.
Marquez joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2016. During his time on the show, he became a three-time finalist with celebrities Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton.
He previously stepped down as a full-time professional dancer due to scheduling conflicts with Dancing With The Stars in Spain. However, he will continue to participate in the upcoming Strictly: The Professionals tour.
Marquez expressed gratitude for his time on the show. He stated, “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 referred to his departure as a decision to “hang up my dance shoes.”
He met his fiancée Gemma Atkinson on Strictly in 2017. They now have two children together.
The BBC praised Marquez for his exceptional contribution to the show. They stated, “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gorka for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the years.”
Marquez hinted at a possible future role as a judge on the Spanish version of the show. As of midday, no official confirmation has been made regarding this potential role.
At 35 years old, Marquez’s departure marks the end of an era not just for him but also for fans of the beloved dance competition.
