Gorka Márquez has become a household name in the UK, thanks to his electrifying performances on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Born in Bilbao, Spain, in September 1990, Gorka began dancing at the age of 12. His early passion for dance quickly turned into a career, representing Spain at the World Latin Championships in 2010 and reaching the semi-finals of the 2012 WDSF World Cup. It was his move to the UK and his debut on Strictly in 2016 that truly launched him into the British spotlight.
Strictly Come Dancing: A Decade of Dazzle
Gorka’s journey on Strictly Come Dancing has been nothing short of remarkable. Since joining the show in 2016, he has become one of its most popular professionals, known for his high-energy routines and engaging personality. Over the years, he has partnered with a range of celebrities, including Alexandra Burke, with whom he finished as runner-up in 2017. Most recently, he was paired with Dr Punam Krishan, finishing sixth in the latest series.
His commitment to the show remains strong, as he prepares for his tenth series. Gorka’s dedication is clear, even as he juggles the demanding rehearsal schedule with his family life. He often shares his excitement about returning to the dance floor, while also being candid about the challenges of spending time away from his loved ones.
Love Story: Gorka and Gemma Atkinson
One of the most heartwarming chapters in Gorka’s life is his relationship with actress and radio presenter Gemma Atkinson. The pair met on Strictly in 2017, though they were not dance partners at the time. Their romance blossomed during the show’s live tour, and they soon became inseparable. Gorka moved to Manchester to be with Gemma, embracing her love for her hometown and the life they were building together.
The couple got engaged in 2019 and now share two children: Mia, aged five, and Thiago, who recently turned two. Gorka and Gemma have spoken openly about their decision to wait for the perfect moment to marry. They want both children to be old enough to walk down the aisle and be part of their special day. Despite several delays, including the pandemic and the arrival of their second child, the couple remains focused on family first.
Family Life: Joys and Challenges
Gorka and Gemma’s family life has seen both joyful milestones and emotional challenges. In 2024, the couple experienced heartbreak with the loss of their beloved dogs, Norman and Ollie. Earlier this year, they welcomed a new puppy, Benji, into their home, only for him to require emergency surgery weeks later. Gorka shared his distress with fans on social media, posting a tearful selfie and updates about Benji’s recovery. The couple’s openness about their struggles has resonated with many, showing a more vulnerable side to the usually upbeat dancer.
Despite the ups and downs, Gorka’s commitment to his family is unwavering. He often arranges his busy touring and filming schedule to maximise time at home, sometimes driving hours after a show just to wake up with his children the next morning. For Gorka, these small moments—like school runs and bedtime stories—are as important as any standing ovation.
Fitness and Wellbeing: The Secret to His Stamina
Behind Gorka’s on-stage energy lies a rigorous fitness regime. He is a self-confessed fitness enthusiast, training five times a week and running regularly. Gorka credits his physical and mental wellbeing for his ability to handle the demands of live performance and touring. He also advocates for functional fitness, likening it to dance choreography in how it prepares the body for real-life movement.
His approach to health extends beyond the gym. Gorka incorporates daily ice baths and saunas to aid recovery and maintain peak condition throughout the year. This commitment to wellbeing is not just about performance; it’s also about being present and active for his young family.
Balancing Fame and Family
As his career has flourished, Gorka has become increasingly vocal about the importance of work-life balance. He admits that the demands of Strictly and touring can be tough, but he is determined to find time for his partner and children. Gorka’s philosophy is simple: life is about balance, not just work. He cherishes the everyday moments at home as much as the excitement of live television.
This year, Gorka has also been busy with a UK dance tour alongside fellow Strictly professional Karen Hauer, as well as serving as a judge on Spain’s version of Dancing with the Stars. Despite the gruelling schedule, he plans to document his travels and share the journey with fans, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of the life of a professional dancer.
Conclusion
With a decade on Strictly Come Dancing and a growing family, Gorka shows no signs of slowing down. His passion for dance, commitment to fitness, and dedication to his loved ones continue to inspire fans across the UK. As he prepares for another series of Strictly, Gorka remains a beloved figure, both on and off the dance floor.
For Gorka Márquez, the spotlight is not just about glitter and glamour. It’s about hard work, resilience, and the joy of sharing life’s milestones with those who matter most. As British audiences look forward to another season of sparkling routines, Gorka’s story reminds us that behind every dance is a story of heart, hustle, and home.
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