Gorka Marquez has become the latest professional dancer to leave Strictly Come Dancing, with his departure announcement described as a 'calculated repositioning'. After a decade on the show, the Spanish star posted a cryptic message that has left fans guessing about his next move.
A Cryptic Farewell
The 35-year-old dancer shared a black-and-white photo of himself walking towards a studio door, his back turned and expression unseen. In the caption, he wrote: 'I've decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing.' He also hinted at a future role, saying he hopes to 'hold up a few paddles and give out some tens along the way.'
Leading body language expert Judi James told the Mirror that this line is a 'heavy clue' that Marquez may be returning as a judge. 'He could just mean he'll be watching from his sofa, but this reads like a hint at a new career as a judge,' she said.
Behind the Scenes
Marquez's exit follows a turbulent period for the show, with five other professionals—Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, and presenting duo Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly—also leaving. A source claimed Marquez had wanted to quit since 2022 but was persuaded to stay after a 'painful' loss in the final with partner Helen Skelton.
PR expert Mayah Riaz said the departure feels 'far less sudden than it's being framed.' She added: 'This is about control. It is much better to step away while your audience is still asking questions than to fade out unnoticed.'
What's Next?
Marquez currently serves as a judge on the Spanish version of Strictly, Bailando con las Estrellas. His statement also mentioned dancing on the Strictly Pro Tour, leading to confusion about whether he is truly leaving the dance floor. The BBC thanked Marquez for his 'exceptional contribution' and wished him success in his judging role in Spain.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans are left wondering if Marquez's cryptic clues point to a permanent seat on the judging panel—or simply a new chapter away from the ballroom.
