Gemma Atkinson has hit back at online trolls who claimed she was responsible for Gorka Marquez's departure from Strictly Come Dancing. The professional dancer recently announced he would not return to the BBC show this year, ending a 10-year run.
Gorka's Emotional Exit
Gorka is the fifth professional to confirm his exit, following Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas. On the Lost In Translation podcast he co-hosts with Gemma, the 35-year-old described the decision as "bittersweet," adding, "We all have cycles." He confirmed he will continue watching the show.
Gemma Sets the Record Straight
In response, Gemma, 41, took the opportunity to shut down claims that she influenced his decision. "Well, it wasn't my decision, which I'd like to point out for everyone who's messaged me on Instagram, saying, 'You finally got what you want now.' Absolutely not," she said.
Defending his partner, Gorka added: "She was happy when I did Strictly because she has her own space."
A Bittersweet Break
"It was a nice break for me when he was doing it," the actress clarified, before adding: "10 years is a good round number." The announcement came after Gorka took a break last year to focus on judging duties on the Spanish version of the show. He will still participate in the Strictly: The Professionals tour.
Reflecting on his time on the show, Gorka expressed gratitude for the "many things" he learned and the people he met, including Gemma. Their romance began after the 2017 series, where he was partnered with Alexandra Burke while Gemma competed with Aljaž Škorjanec. Both couples reached the final, won by Joe McFadden and Katya Jones.
Family Life and Wedding Plans
The couple have two children: daughter Mia and son Thiago, who turns three in July. They announced their engagement on Valentine's Day in 2021 but have not yet married. On their podcast, they revealed they have considered marrying in either Spain or the UK, but recently indicated it is not a priority.
Gemma joked there was "no chance" they would tie the knot, noting they do not always see eye to eye. Unfazed, Gorka added: "I don't think I want to get married," saying he believes they are "fine" as they are. "Everyone I know who has got married has ended up getting divorced, apart from my sister," Gemma continued.
