Strictly Come Dancing favourite Gorka Márquez has candidly shared the devastating reason he was forced to sit out the show's grand finale, describing it as one of the toughest moments in his professional career.
The renowned dancer, a cornerstone of the BBC hit, was conspicuously absent from the final group performance in 2023, leaving fans questioning his whereabouts. Now, in an exclusive and emotional revelation, Gorka has pulled back the curtain on the painful setback that benched him.
The culprit? A severe and debilitating ankle injury suffered just days before the glitterball trophy was to be awarded. The professional explained that the injury was so acute that performing was simply not an option, despite every ounce of his will to be on that iconic dancefloor.
"It was heartbreaking," Gorka confessed. "To have to watch from the sidelines, especially during the final, was incredibly difficult. You work all season for that moment." His absence was felt not just by the audience but by his fellow dancers, for whom the final group number is a celebrated tradition.
His celebrity partner for the series, BBC Radio 2 presenter Nikita Kanda, was among the first to be eliminated in the competition. While their journey was cut short, Gorka's commitment to the show never wavered—making his forced exit from the finale all the more poignant.
The physical toll of Strictly's demanding schedule is no secret, but Gorka's admission highlights the intense pressure and resilience required of its stars. His honesty provides a raw glimpse behind the show's dazzling sequins and perfect scores, revealing the true pain that can accompany the pursuit of dance perfection.
