Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez has said he is 'better than ever' after leaving the BBC show, revealing he is glad to see the back of sore backs and hair restrictions. The 35-year-old Spanish dancer confirmed his departure in April after a decade on the programme.
Speaking on his podcast 'Lost In Translation' with fiancée Gemma Atkinson, Marquez addressed fan messages. One listener wrote: 'I can't imagine Strictly without Gorka's presence and I hope he soars with his next venture.' Atkinson replied that she 'loved' the support, adding: 'In fact he's actually better, he's better than ever.'
Marquez noted two aspects of professional dancing he is happy to leave behind: 'My hair will grow now,' he said, while Atkinson added: 'And his back won't be sore.' The couple also addressed rumours that Atkinson pressured Marquez to quit, with the actress insisting: 'It wasn't my decision.'
Marquez missed last year's professional roster due to judging Spain's equivalent show, but recently completed the 'Strictly: The Professionals' tour. His exit follows departures of fellow pros Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas.
