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Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez has announced that he will not be returning in the 2026 series. The 35-year-old Spanish dancer is the latest name to wave goodbye to the BBC programme amid the ongoing show bloodbath.

Taking to his Instagram account, Gorka 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. 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."

He continued: "For that, I will forever be thankful. 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

"Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey. Keep dancing."

The BBC confirmed the news with a statement of its own, which was posted to the official Strictly Instagram account. It read: "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 update follows a number of pros being axed from the show for the upcoming series, including Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova and Michelle Tsiakkas.

Gorka first joined the show in 2016 but stepped down as a full-time pro last year. He also found love on the BBC programme with former celebrity contestant Gemma Atkinson.

They were not paired up to dance together but still sparked a romance and went on to share two children together.