Gorka Márquez is latest Strictly pro to quit BBC series after 10 years

Gorka Márquez is the latest professional to leave Strictly Come Dancing, it has been confirmed.

The Spanish pro, 35, joined the BBC show in 2016 and has reached the final three times with Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton.

His axing comes after a string of Strictly shake-ups ahead of the 2026 season, which has seen Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Nadiya Bychkova also dropped from the roster.

Meanwhile, rumours continue to swirl about who the new hosts will be, taking over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. According to reports, after a week of auditions, a new duo has been selected, with an announcement expected within weeks.

Confirming Gorka’s exit, the official Strictly Instagram page posted a statement today, reading: ‘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.’

Gorka then posted his own message, addressing quitting Strictly after ‘stepping down’ as a full-time pro last series due to ‘scheduling conflicts’ when he became involved with the Spanish edition.

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.’

Gorka, who met his partner, Gemma Atkinson, on the show, continued: ‘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.’

Confirming that he will still take part in the upcoming tour, unlike Michelle, who sensationally quit, he added: ‘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 🤭’, Gorka then teased about his judging role on Mira quién baila.

‘Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey’, he concluded, adding the iconic catchphrase, ‘Keep dancing 🫶’

Gorka was quickly inundated with comments from his co-stars, with Carlos Gu, who won the last series with Karen Carney, writing: ‘I wish nothing but the best papasito!!!! Loved our time but I’m sure there’s more to come xx’

‘Oh Gorks! I know the future Ahead gonna be bright and exciting and one your family out will continue to be so proud of 💖’, commented Amy Dowden.

‘Brother. Wish you all the best ❤️ Can’t wait to watch you( my Spanish Gene Kelly) on pro tour! Love ya 🙌🏼’, commented Aljaž Škorjanec.

Actress and radio host Gemma, 41, who has a son and a daughter with Gorka, also joked about how Strictly brought them together, commenting: ‘Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! 🥰🥰 Exciting times ahead ❤️❤️’

During her own Strictly experience, Gemma was paired with Aljaž and made it to the final.

She and Gorka got engaged in 2021 after he proposed on Valentine’s Day. They welcomed daughter Mia in July 2019 and son Thiago in July 2023.