Gorka Marquez’s statement in full, as the professional dancer leaves the BBC dance competition after a decade, and is met with tributes from fellow Strictly dancers.
Gorka Marquez announced earlier today that he would be hanging op his dancing shoes and preparing to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing forever, after a decade.
The 35-year-old dancer announced on social media: “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.
“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.”
He said that he would still be part of the show’s family for the time being, adding: “Although I’m stepping away from the dance floor, I can’t wait to dance on the Strictly Pro Tour starting this week and continue being part of this incredible family.
“Now it’s time to take a step back, enjoy the sidelines… and hopefully hold up a few paddles and give out some tens along the way. He then concluded: “Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey. Keep dancing.”
His Strictly co-stars and friends immediately rushed to pay tribute to him, and wish him well for this next chapter, as he continues working on the Spanish version of the show, Bailando con las estrellas (Dancing With The Stars).
Amy Dowden commented: “Oh Gorks! I know the future Ahead gonna be bright and exciting and one your family out will continue to be so proud of.” “Brother. Wish you all the best. Can’t wait to watch you( my Spanish Gene Kelly) on pro tour! Love ya,” said Aljaž Škorjanec.
Neil Jones commented: “My Brother we started this journey together and I can’t wait to continue the fun here on the tour with you.” Dianne Buswell replied: “gorkssssss” Johannes Radebe commented: “Oh papi all the best. ” Nancy Xu commented: “Georgeeeeeee let’s make the most of it you are AMAZING”
Luba Mushtuk, Lauren Oakley, and Ash-Leigh Hunter all commented with just heart emoji’s on Gorka’s announcement. Nadiya Bychkova, Tasha Ghouri and Motsi Mabuse also left similar heart emojis on the BBC’s official announcement on Gorka’s departure.
Gemma Atkinson, who married Gorka after they appeared on the show at the same time 9 years ago, replied: “Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! Exciting times ahead.”
Strictly Come Dancing also released a statement about Gorka’s departure, commenting: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gorka for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the years. Since joining the show in 2016, Gorka has been a hugely popular member of the professional dancer line-up, known for his passion, charisma and exceptional choreography.
“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 and that journey reflects the same warmth, commitment and character he has always brought to the show. We are incredibly grateful for his dedication to the series over the years and are so proud to see him shining in his judging role on Bailando con las Estrellas in Spain. We wish him continued success and happiness in everything that’s to come.”
The dancer’s departure from Strictly comes amid the news that fellow professional dancers; Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova and Michelle Tsiakkas will no longer be part of the show either.
Strictly bosses have yet to announce who will replace these dancers, and similarly have not yet announced who will be replacing as hosts, as Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are also set to leave the series after the 2025 Christmas Special.
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