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Strictly Come Dancing's Gorka Marquez's exit statement in full as he quits BBC show

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Gorka Marquez has officially announced his exit from the BBC show after 10 years, sharing a heartfelt statement with fans

[Gorka Marquez]

Gorka Marquez has left Strictly after not competing in the show in 2025

Gorka Marquez revealed earlier today that he would be hanging up his dancing shoes and preparing to bid farewell to Strictly Come Dancing for good, after a decade.

The 35-year-old dancer announced on social media: "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."

[Gorka Marquez]

Gorka explained that he had other commitments which is why he has stepped down(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston)

He mentioned that he would remain part of the show's family for now, adding: "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. He then concluded: "Thank you to everyone who has supported me and shared their love throughout this incredible journey. Keep dancing."

His Strictly co-stars and friends immediately rushed to pay tribute to him, and wish him well for this next chapter, as he continues working on the Spanish version of the show, Bailando con las estrellas (Dancing With The Stars), reports the Mirror.

Amy Dowden commented: "Oh Gorks! I know the future Ahead gonna be bright and exciting and one your family out will continue to be so proud of.

"Brother. Wish you all the best. Can't wait to watch you( my Spanish Gene Kelly) on pro tour! Love ya," said Alja korjanec.

Neil Jones commented: "My Brother we started this journey together and I can't wait to continue the fun here on the tour with you." Dianne Buswell replied: "gorkssssss" Johannes Radebe commented: "Oh papi all the best. " Nancy Xu commented: "Georgeeeeeee let's make the most of it you are AMAZING"

Luba Mushtuk, Lauren Oakley, and Ash-Leigh Hunter all commented with just heart emojis on Gorka's announcement. Nadiya Bychkova, Tasha Ghouri and Motsi Mabuse also left similar heart emojis on the BBC's official announcement on Gorka's departure.

[LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 10: Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez attend the TV Choice Awards at The Dorchester on September 10, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images) TV Choice Awards - Red Carpet Arrivals]

Gemma is now in a relationship with Strictly Come Dancing pro Gorka Marquez(Image: Getty Images)

Gemma Atkinson, who married Gorka after they appeared on the show at the same time 9 years ago, replied: "Thank goodness you were on the show in 2017! Exciting times ahead." Strictly Come Dancing also issued a statement regarding Gorka's exit, saying: "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."

The professional's exit from Strictly follows confirmation that fellow pro dancers Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova and Michelle Tsiakkas are also stepping away from the programme.

Show bosses are yet to reveal who will take over from these performers, and have similarly remained tight-lipped about presenting replacements, with Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly both departing the series following the 2025 Christmas Special.

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