Gorka Marquez confirms BBC Strictly exit after a decade as professional dancer: 'Now is the time'

Olivia Gantzer
Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:06:32 +0000

Gorka Marquez has finally broken his silence after weeks of speculation that he has been 'axed' from Strictly Come Dancing alongside Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer and Michelle Tsiakkas.

The latter four have since confirmed their exits after the BBC made announcements on each of them in turn, and after Spanish dancer Mr Marquez received his own on Tuesday, the 35-year-old issued a separate statement.

The popular BBC show appears to be undergoing a major shakeup, with the series yet to officially confirm the professional line-up for this year.

Other than the confirmed exits, little is known about the upcoming series, which will also be the first not to feature presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, both of who decided to quit their long-running positions after the 2025 show.

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A post shared by Gorka Marquez (@gorka_marquez)

Taking to Instagram, Mr Marquez shared a photo of himself with his back to the camera walking away.

He penned in the caption: "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.

"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.

"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."

The dancer went on to appear to reference some kind of judging role as he continued: "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."

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A post shared by BBC Strictly (@bbcstrictly)

Mr Marquez joined Strictly back in 2016, and the following year he was paired with former actress Gemma Atkinson, who eventually became his partner. The couple now share two children.

Ms Atkinson herself left a sweet comment under the post which read: "Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! Exciting times ahead."

Fellow professional dancer Amy Dowden penned: "Oh Gorks! I know the future ahead gonna be bright and exciting and one your family out will continue to be so proud of." (sic)

Dianne Buswell, also a dancer on the show, left two heart emojis and a crying symbol alongside: "Gorkssssss." (sic)

Both Ms Bychkova and Ms Tsiakkas each shared heart emojis also, while presenter and one of Mr Marquez's former celebrity partners, Helen Skelton, also shared a comment.

She wrote: "Thanks for the memories my friend. Forever grateful. Forever in your debt. Forever happy I got the chance to dance with you. Excited for your next chapter. 'Toodle oo' for now."

Co-star Neil Jones added: "My brother we started this journey together and I can't wait to continue the fun here on the tour with you."

Another Strictly star, Aljaž Škorjanec, posted: "Brother. Wish you all the best. Can't wait to watch you (my Spanish Gene Kelly) on pro tour! Love ya." (sic)