The end of an era for Strictly Come Dancing!
Gorka Marquez, the beloved Spanish ballroom star, has confirmed his departure from Strictly Come Dancing, closing the curtain on a decade-long journey that made him one of the most iconic faces on the BBC dance floor.
Announcing the emotional news via Instagram, Gorka revealed, “After stepping down as a full-time professional last year due to scheduling conflicts with Strictly and Dancing With The Stars Spain, I’ve decided now is the time to hang up my dance shoes for good.”
His departure follows months of speculation, with Gorka being among the high-profile names rumored to be axed ahead of Strictly’s 24th series.
Gorka Marquez has confirmed he has left Strictly Come Dancing – two months after it was revealed he was in the running to be axed from the show
“It’s time to say goodbye.” Gorka continued, “I will always be incredibly grateful to Strictly and the BBC for everything. This show has given me so much more than just a career—it allowed me to build a life, find love, start a family, and make lifelong friends. For that, I will forever be thankful.”
The Spanish ballroom professional is the latest high profile name be leaving the much-loved programme (pictured during the Strictly Come Dancing live tour with Alexandra Burke in 2018)
His emotional message comes at a time when Strictly is in the midst of a dramatic shake-up, as the BBC prepares for major changes to the show’s lineup. In addition to Gorka’s exit, fellow pros Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, and Michelle Tsiakkas have also been shown the door. The axings signal a new direction for the show, with replacements still to be announced.
Gorka previously took a short break from the show after signing up for a three week stint as a judge on the show’s Spanish version, Bailando Con Las Estrellas, in 2025
But Gorka isn’t leaving the Strictly family just yet. He’s set to hit the road on the Strictly Pro Tour, promising fans that although he’s stepping away from the main show, he’s still very much part of the Strictly experience. “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,” he teased.
His departure comes as part of a wider overhaul of the programme, which has been gripped by a series of high-profile controversies. With long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly leaving after the 2025 Christmas Special, producers are looking to revamp the entire show, focusing on attracting a younger audience and bolstering its presence on platforms like TikTok.
In a shocking twist, social media influence has become a major factor in the decision to overhaul the lineup. Dancers with smaller online followings—like Nadiya Bychkova, who boasts just 19,000 followers—are being replaced by stars with larger social media presence, like 25-year-old Alexis Warr, who has 190,000 followers.
Gorka’s decision to step away marks the end of an era, with the 10-year veteran being part of some of Strictly’s most memorable moments, including three finals and a passionate love story with fiancée Gemma Atkinson, which began on the show in 2017. The couple now shares two children and hosts a popular podcast together.
But this isn’t the only major change hitting Strictly. Reports have emerged that Fleur East and Janette Manrara, both of whom had a long association with the show’s spin-off It Takes Two, are also on the chopping block. It’s clear that the BBC is determined to move forward, distance itself from past scandals, and refresh its iconic dance programme.
One insider revealed, “Fans will be stunned by the ongoing bloodbath, but the bosses are determined to bring in a fresh era. Nobody feels safe right now, and there’s a real push for change behind the scenes.”
Despite the reshuffling, Gorka’s impact on Strictly is undeniable. His heartfelt farewell to the show will leave fans reflecting on a decade of jaw-dropping choreography, emotional performances, and a love story that captured the hearts of viewers.
As Strictly steps into this new chapter, it’s clear that the stage is set for dramatic changes—but Gorka Marquez’s mark on the show will never be forgotten.
