Gemma Atkinson has denied claims she forced partner Gorka Marquez to quit Strictly Come Dancing – and has shared his real reason for leaving the series.
The Spanish star, 35, joined the BBC series in 2016, but won’t be returning for the 2026 edition. His exit followed a cast overhaul, which led to the departure of Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas.
However, Marquez’s decision to leave was his own – and was inspired by his young daughter Mia, not Atkinson, which has been claimed online.
The former Hollyoaks actor, whom he danced with on the show back in 2017, said on Wednesday (6 May): “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.’”
Addressing Marquez’s other job, as a judge on Strictly’s Spanish version Bailando Con Las Estrellas, Atkinson said: “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.’”
Marquez, who also has son Thiago with Atkinson, was a guest judge on last year’s series of Bailando Con Las Estrellas, but will not be a permanent part of the line-up.
The dancer announced his exit from Strictly last month, writing: “I’ve decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.”
He said he will always be incredibly grateful to the show 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.”
The show’s official Instagram account hailed him as “a hugely popular” part of the show, writing: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Gorka for his exceptional contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the years.”
It praised his passion, charisma and exceptional choreography, stating: “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.”
Marquez was a Strictly finalist three times, with celebrities Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton.
All of the professionals returning to the show have officially been announced by the BBC, which also confirmed a few new faces will complete the line-up.
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