Gemma Atkinson is reportedly "secretly relieved" that her fiancé Gorka Márquez has departed from Strictly Come Dancing after a decade on the BBC programme.
The 35-year-old Spanish dancer confirmed his exit from the show earlier this week, becoming the fifth professional to leave ahead of the 2026 series.
Sources close to the couple suggest the 41-year-old Hits Radio presenter is supportive of his decision to step away from the ballroom.
According to an insider speaking to the Daily Mail, Ms Atkinson has concerns about the so-called "Strictly curse" that has been blamed for ending numerous relationships over the years.
Gemma Atkinson is understood to be 'secretly relieved'
| PAThe source said: "Gemma won't allow anything like the 'Strictly curse' to happen to their marriage.
"The curse has split so many families up so the fact Gorka won't be around what has become a pretty colourful show like Strictly would be a relief for any wife."
The couple have faced extended periods of separation during each series, with Ms Atkinson remaining in the north of England for her broadcasting commitments and family responsibilities whilst Mr Márquez competed in London.
The demanding nature of the show's schedule has previously been highlighted by Mr Márquez himself, who described rehearsing for eight hours daily as "painful" during a recent podcast appearance with Ms Atkinson.
He was keen to emphasise that his departure was entirely his own choice, particularly amid speculation that he might have been pushed out by BBC bosses.
In his statement posted on social media, he explained: "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 has been juggling his role as a judge on the Spanish version of the programme since 2024, reflected warmly on what the show had given him.
He wrote: "Over the last 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."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Mr Márquez's exit comes during a period of significant upheaval for the long-running dance competition, with Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas also confirmed as departing before the upcoming series in what has been deemed a "cull" of professionals.
BBC executives are understood to be planning a substantial overhaul of the programme following a turbulent year marked by various controversies and the unexpected exits of presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Despite stepping away from the main show, Márquez kicked off the Strictly The Professionals live tour on Wednesday evening, with performances scheduled throughout May including dates at The Lowry in Salford and the London Palladium.
Ms Atkinson shared her support publicly, posting on Instagram: "Opening night! Knock 'em dead @gorka_marquez. Always proud of you."
Gorka Marquez met partner Gemma Atkinson on BBC Strictly in 2017 | INSTAGRAM/GORKA MARQUEZThe couple first connected when Atkinson appeared as a celebrity contestant in 2017, and have since welcomed two children together.
She had earlier responded to his departure announcement by writing: "Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! Exciting times ahead."