Gemma Atkinson has firmly refuted rumors that she pressured her fiancé, Gorka Marquez, to leave Strictly Come Dancing. The professional dancer, aged 35, stepped away from the BBC One series last month after a decade in the pro lineup.
Addressing the Speculation
Atkinson, 41, whom Marquez met on the show in 2017, tackled the claims head-on during the latest episode of their podcast, Lost In Translation. She stated: “It wasn’t my decision which I’d like to point out for everybody who messaged me on Instagram saying, ‘you’ve finally got what you want now’.”
Balancing Commitments and Family
Marquez juggled appearances on Strictly Come Dancing with his judging role on the Spanish version, Bailando Con Las Estrellas. The demanding schedule prompted the couple to prioritize family life. They involved their six-year-old daughter, Mia, in the discussion.
Atkinson shared: “When we were talking about it we did include Mia. We said to Mia, ‘what would you rather Papa do? Would you rather he work in Spain at weekends or work in England during Strictly?’ She said, ‘well I do love watching him dance, but I love having him home more’. And we were like, ‘right, signed, sealed, delivered.’ She said to my mum, ‘me, mummy and papa have decided, this year he’s not going to be dancing on Strictly’.”
The couple noted that their two-year-old son, Thiago, also struggled with Marquez’s frequent absences on tour.
Gorka’s Official Statement
Marquez confirmed his exit via a heartfelt Instagram post: “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. 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.”
BBC Acknowledgment and Career Highlights
The BBC expressed gratitude for Marquez’s dedication and wished him success in his Spanish judging role. He first joined Strictly in 2016, serving as a full-time pro until last year, when scheduling limited his on-screen appearances. Over 10 years, he partnered with celebrities eight times, reaching the final three times alongside Alexandra Burke, Helen Skelton, and Maisie Smith.
Several other professionals, including Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, and Michelle Tsiakkas, will not return for the upcoming series.
