Gorka Márquez , one of the most beloved and recognisable professional dancers on ' Strictly Come Dancing ', known for his fiery Latin choreography, passionate performances, and memorable partnerships over the years, is leaving the show after a decade. He becomes the fifth professional dancer not returning to the series later this year, joining Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas.
BBC confirmed the news on social media, with Márquez becoming the fifth professional not returning to the show this year.
What the broadcaster said about Gorka Márquez's exitIn a statement shared online, it said, "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."
The statement continued, "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."
What Gorka Márquez said about leaving 'Strictly Come Dancing'Márquez shared an emotional statement on Instagram, confirming that after initially stepping down as a full-time professional, he has since decided "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 wrote.
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. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey."
Why is Gorka Márquez leaving ?Rumours of Márquez not returning to the show were doing the rounds for quite some time, largely due to his commitments on the Spanish equivalent of 'Dancing with the Stars', 'Bailando con las Estrellas', where he now serves as a judge. Last year, he was absent from 'Strictly' due to scheduling conflicts, though he remained involved in group numbers with the other professionals.
