Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez have opened up about Gorka’s decision to leave Strictly Come Dancing after ten successful years on the BBC show, setting the record straight in the wake of rumors that Gemma had pressured him into quitting. The couple, who met on the 2017 series of Strictly, revealed that the decision was mutual, a result of deep conversations about family priorities and the overwhelming nature of their hectic schedules.
The Decision to Move On
Gorka, 35, made the announcement last month that he would not be returning to Strictly for its upcoming season. His departure came amid a significant shake-up of the pro dancers, with several fan favorites being axed in what the media dubbed the “Strictly bloodbath.”
In a candid discussion during their Lost In Translation podcast, which Gorka and Gemma co-host, Gorka revealed that his decision to move on from the show was a carefully thought-out one. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was one that we both knew was coming,” he said, speaking of the conversations he had with Gemma and their daughter, Mia, 6. “It was bittersweet,” Gorka admitted, adding that while he had learned a great deal from his time on the show, it was time for a new chapter in his life. “I’ve learned loads, met lots of people, not just about dancing but about life. I’ve made friends, I met you, we have a family. I’m very grateful, but it’s a chapter that’s closed now.”
Gemma’s Clarification: “It Wasn’t My Decision”
Despite the heartfelt explanation from Gorka, rumors swirled on social media, with many speculating that Gemma had played a significant role in pushing him to leave Strictly. Gemma was quick to address these claims, making it clear that it was a joint decision between the two. “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,’” Gemma clarified with a playful tone. “Absolutely not, it was a nice break from you when you were doing it,” she joked, emphasizing that the decision wasn’t solely hers to make.
The couple had been aware of the need to step back from Strictly for quite some time, with Gemma noting that they had been discussing it “for a long time.” The reality of balancing their professional and personal lives had become too overwhelming, especially as Gorka’s commitments to Strictly often conflicted with his work in Spain.
Prioritizing Family and Family Feedback
The couple’s decision wasn’t made in a vacuum; their young daughter Mia played an essential role in the process. Gemma and Gorka shared that they had spoken to Mia about Gorka’s work commitments, asking her opinion on whether she would prefer her father to stay in England for Strictly or spend more time at home with the family. “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?’” Gemma recalled. Mia’s response was clear: “Well, I do love watching him dance, but I love having him home more.”
That moment was pivotal in their decision-making. “And we were like, ‘Right, signed, sealed, delivered,’” Gemma said with a smile, recalling how they had come to the conclusion that family time was a higher priority. Their daughter’s simple but heartfelt request helped Gorka realize that the balance of work and family needed to shift.
The Impact on Their Youngest Son
While Mia, now 6, was vocal about wanting more time with her father, their younger son, Thiago, 2, had been struggling with Gorka’s time away on tour. Gemma explained that Thiago had been more sensitive than they anticipated, and “he’s been crying at nursery for you,” she said to Gorka during the podcast. As parents, the couple recognized the emotional toll their hectic work schedules were having on their children, and it became clear that prioritizing family time was essential for their well-being.
This decision marks a new chapter in Gorka and Gemma’s family life. While Gorka will no longer be dancing on Strictly, the couple’s commitment to their children and their newfound freedom to spend more time together as a family represents a major shift. Gorka will focus on new opportunities and projects that allow for more balance between work and home life.
Gorka’s Strictly Departure and the Pro Dance Cull
Gorka’s exit from Strictly comes at a time when the BBC is undergoing significant changes to its dance roster. Several long-standing professionals, including Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Luba Mushtuk, were let go in a controversial cull of the Strictly cast. Gorka’s departure from the show adds to the growing list of familiar faces being replaced by fresh talent. The 2026 season will see the return of some beloved pros, such as Dianne Buswell, Amy Dowden, and Katya Jones, but the overall shake-up has left many fans mourning the loss of long-time favorites.
For Gorka, his exit is bittersweet, as he has built lasting relationships and gained immense popularity during his time on the show. However, he and Gemma are both looking forward to what the future holds for their family as they navigate life beyond the Strictly ballroom.
Life After Strictly: A New Chapter for Gorka and Gemma
For now, the couple is enjoying a more relaxed pace of life, focusing on family and personal growth. Gorka has stated that he’s excited to explore new projects and challenges, while Gemma continues to thrive in her career and life outside of Strictly. Their podcast Lost in Translation remains a fun outlet for their fans, offering behind-the-scenes insights into their lives as a couple, parents, and professionals.
While the future of Gorka’s career may not be on the Strictly stage, his personal and professional journey is far from over. With the support of Gemma and their children, Gorka is ready to move forward and embrace new opportunities, whether in the entertainment world or beyond.
As the couple looks ahead, it’s clear that their focus on family and balance will guide their decisions in the years to come. With their strong partnership and a united front, they are ready to face whatever the future holds, ensuring that their children’s happiness and well-being are always their top priority.
