Gorka Marquez, a fan-favorite professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has shared a heartfelt video as he prepares for his final tour with the show.

Emotional Farewell & Tour Kick-Off

The 35-year-old Spanish ballroom dancer posted the emotional video with his Strictly colleagues as they began the Strictly: The Professionals tour. Gorka, who recently announced his departure from the BBC show after ten years, expressed his gratitude for one last performance with his friends.

In the video, while many of his co-stars were “ecstatic” about the upcoming shows, Gorka admitted to feeling “grateful” for the opportunity to share the stage with them again. The tour commenced at The Globe in Stockton-on-Tees and will conclude at Blackpool Opera House on May 30.

A Decade of Dancing & Personal Connections

Gorka captioned the clip with a heartfelt message: “Opening night Feelings. Ready to celebrate and share dance with you all.” His departure marks the end of an era, as he was one of the show’s most popular professionals.

He met his fiancée, Gemma Atkinson, on the program in 2017, and the couple now share two children. They also co-host a successful podcast together.

Cast Shake-Up & Focus on Social Media

Gorka’s exit follows a series of cast changes as Strictly producers aim to refresh the show’s lineup ahead of its 24th series. Fellow professionals Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, and Michelle Tsiakkas have also left the show, with replacements yet to be announced.

The BBC has not yet confirmed who will take over hosting duties after Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s departure following the 2025 Christmas Special.

Past Challenges & Social Media Influence

Gorka previously took a temporary break from Strictly in 2025 to judge the Spanish version of the show, Bailando Con Las Estrellas, creating a scheduling conflict. He returned after a month-long absence.

Over his ten years on Strictly, Gorka reached the finals three times, solidifying his reputation as a talented dancer. The BBC is reportedly prioritizing dancers with larger social media followings to attract a younger audience.

For example, Nadiya Bychkova, with 19,000 followers, was let go, while Dianne Buswell, with 966,000 followers, remained on the show. Similarly, Karen Hauer, the show’s longest-serving female dancer with 9,000 followers, was replaced by newcomer Alexis Warr, who has 190,000 followers.

A source revealed that Strictly is actively seeking ways to expand its audience, particularly among younger viewers, and social media presence is a key factor. While TikTok popularity isn’t the sole criterion, it can influence decisions.

“Strictly is always looking for ways to increase its audience in terms of volume, but also in terms of attracting new, young viewers. Social media is a massive part of broadening that appeal, and TikTok is the perfect medium for a show where music and dance is at the forefront,” the source stated. “They won’t simply lose someone from the line-up because they aren’t big on TikTok, but it might just be the thing that saves them from exiting the line-up.”

As Strictly prepares for its next series, fans await announcements regarding the new hosts and cast members. Gorka’s departure, while sad, signifies a new chapter for both the dancer and the show.