Gorka Marquez has lifted the lid on all things Strictly Come Dancing. Fans of the professional dancer were left disappointed to find out he wasn't in the line-up for the upcoming Strictly live tour despite his partner Helen Skelton taking part.
Helen will be dancing with Kai Widdrington on the tour, despite the fact that Hamza Yassin, Fleur East, and Molly Rainford are reuniting with their original dance partners Jowita Prytzal, Vito Coppola and Carlos Gu.
Following the announcement many BBC Strictly fans were left scratching their heads over Gorka's absence, however, the 32-year-old, who is engaged to actress Gemma Atkinson, has now explained why he's not taking part.
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The dancer gave his social media following the opportunity to ask him some questions as he boarded a flight to Miami. Asked why he's not doing the show, Gorka said: "After the Strictly series I always like to take some down time to spend quality time with Gem and Mia."
He continued: "I am grateful for the work but I also think spending time with family is important. Time flys and we won't get those memories back."
Gorka then issued a plea, telling fans: "But please do go and watch @strictlycomedancinglive it's gonna be amazing!! And make sure you VOTE for @helenskelton and @kaiwidd."
Gorka has also put to bed rumours he was going to quit the show after he missed out on lifting the Glitterball trophy with Helen. Asked again about whether he'll be back for the 2023 series, Gorka said: "I HOPE SO!! I LOVE it and [it] is the BEST job a dancer could wish for."
He added: "I am grateful to be part of the BEST SHOW ON TV." For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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