Gorka Marquez has addressed how he is really feeling following his departure from Strictly Come Dancing, which he announced after a decade on the show. The professional dancer joined the BBC One series in 2016 and has since partnered with celebrities including Tameka Empson, Alexandra Burke, and former Blue Peter presenter Helen.
In late April, Marquez took to Instagram to share the news, expressing that he will "forever be thankful" for his time on the competition but felt it was time to "hang up my dance shoes." This decision followed his step back from competing in the 2025 series, as he returned to a judging role on the Spanish version of the show, Bailando con las Estrellas, a position he first held in 2024.
Podcast Reveals True Feelings
During a recent episode of his and fiancée Gemma Atkinson's podcast, Lost In Translation, the couple read out a listener's message that expressed support for Marquez. After Gemma noted how kind the support was, Gorka responded, "I know, they're so kind," before adding, "But I'm fine." Gemma then joked, "In fact, he's actually better, he's better than ever!"
No Farewell Speech
Marquez also addressed why he did not give a farewell speech during the Strictly The Professionals live tour, unlike his co-star Luba Mushtuk, who also left the show after 10 years and delivered an emotional goodbye. On their podcast, Gemma read another listener message expressing disappointment that Marquez did not get a similar moment. Gemma revealed that the tour producers had offered him the chance, but Marquez said, "I said no!" He explained, "I'm not saying goodbye because I don't want to say goodbye, I just want to celebrate. For me, I put it this way, Strictly doesn't start until August, I'm still in Strictly. I'm still part of the team so I just want to celebrate and dance like one of the team. I don't want to make it about me and be like, 'Oh, I'm leaving... be sad!'"
Gemma added, "Goodbye for me solidifies it. It's just see you soon." Marquez then cheekily teased, "Who knows, you might be getting sat in that chair in a couple of years!"
