Gorka Márquez has QUIT Strictly Come Dancing after 10 years
He won't appear on the 2026 series
Last updated 28th Apr 2026
Following the departure of four female professionals, Spanish dancer Gorka Márquez is the latest to announce he won't be appearing on the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Confirming the news on Tuesday 28th April, Gorka told his Instagram followers: '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 🫶'. (sic)
BBC bosses also shared the news, thanking Gorka for his services.
The statement read: '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.
'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'.
Gorka first joined the show during the 14th series in 2016. Over the years, he's been paired with the likes of Tameka Empson, Alexandra Burke, Katie Piper, Maisie Smith, Katie McGlynn, Helen Skelton, Nikita Kanda and Dr. Punam Krishan.
Although he's never won the show, Gorka has finished in second place twice, during series 18 with Maisie Smith, and during series 20 with Helen Skelton.
The 35-year also met his fiancée Gemma Atkinson on the show, despite not being paired together. The happy couple, who share two adorable children together, got close during the Strictly Tour in 2028, and the rest is history!
The news of Gorka's departure comes after female pros Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas all announced their exits in the last few weeks.
The BBC are yet to confirm the full list of professionals for the 2026 series, as well as not yet announcing the new hosts.