Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez has defended Josh Widdicombe amid criticism of the show's new presenting line-up, praising the comedy he brings to the BBC programme and urging viewers to give him a chance.
Marquez, who left the series in April 2026, spoke out on BBC Breakfast, where he discussed his post-Strictly career and latest venture. Presenter Naga Munchetty questioned him about his views on the backlash the programme has faced since Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe assumed presenting duties, and the ex-professional dancer swiftly championed the series, encouraging audiences to "be patient".
Marquez Urges Viewers to Be Patient
Explaining his stance, Marquez said: "I have my opinion and without offending anybody, I think people think it's big shoes to fill. It's not big shoes to fill." He added: "I feel us, as people, sometimes we don't like changes. Changes make us feel uncomfortable and we are very quick when something changes to go 'Oh, it's not like before'. So I think especially the audience needs to be patient, we need to be patient and give people a chance."
Praising the presenting team, he continued: "Emma is amazing, Johannes is a superstar, a talented person. He's never done that before, let him have a chance. It's like when you go dancing and after one time you're like 'Oh no, it's no good'. Just give me a chance, you know?"
Praise for Widdicombe's Comedy
Discussing Widdicombe's contribution, Marquez remarked: "I think it's different, and I think he brings the comedy, the sarcasm with the jokes and his point of view. I think it's great."
Reflecting on his experience watching from the sidelines, Marquez confessed: "Oh, it's lovely. I love it, get to Saturday night, sat at home with the children, put the telly on and watch it. It's nice, there's no stress." He added: "I miss dancing though, but I don't miss the 24/7 overthinking, worrying, panicking. Because it's not about me, it's about that person [their partner] and I want to make the best experience for that person, so you are constantly thinking of ideas, routines, how I can do the best for them. So now I don't have the stress, it's just enjoy as a spectator."
New Festive Show and Departure
Marquez also disclosed he will feature in a new festive dance programme, Xmas on the Dance Floor. Offering supporters a glimpse of what's in store, he explained: "It's a very different show to all the Strictly tours we do over the year. It's all those Christmas songs, with a little bit of glam of Strictly, we are going to have amazing singers performing, it's a bit of everything. I say it's like a panto show with the glam of Strictly."
When Marquez initially confirmed his departure from the programme after a decade on the show, he emphasised its significance to him, expressing in a heartfelt social media statement: "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."
Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas also publicly backed new co-presenter Widdicombe, declaring he was "brilliant at his job" following criticism of his hosting approach. Speaking on the red carpet at the Pride of Britain Awards, the head judge believed the refreshed presenting team has given the enduring family favourite a "fresh" feel. Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC One on Saturday at 6.30pm.
