Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Gorka Marquez has announced he is leaving the BBC show after ten years. The 35-year-old Spanish dancer confirmed his departure on Instagram on Tuesday, saying it was time to 'hang up my dance shoes'.
Marquez, who joined Strictly in 2016, said he would 'forever be thankful' for his time on the programme. He wrote: 'After last year’s decision to step down as a full-time professional due to scheduling conflicts between Strictly and Dancing with the Stars Spain, I’ve decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.'
The dancer, who now lives in Greater Manchester with his fiancée Gemma Atkinson and their two children, met Atkinson during the 2017 series. He added: '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.'
Marquez is the fifth professional dancer to leave Strictly ahead of the 2026 series, following Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas. He did not have a celebrity partner in the most recent series due to his judging commitments on Dancing with the Stars Spain.
The BBC Strictly Instagram page praised Marquez for his 'exceptional contribution' to the show, noting his 'warmth, commitment and character'. The statement added: 'As well as being part of our Strictly family, it’s been heartwarming to see him start his own family during his time with us.'
Marquez will continue to appear on the Strictly Pro Tour starting this week. He signed off: 'Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey. Keep dancing.'
