Gorka Marquez has finally gone on the record on why he's not doing the Strictly Come Dancing tour this year; telling fans he wanted to spend some 'important' time with family instead.
For the third time in his Strictly career, Gorka made it all the way to the final last year, alongside former Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton, with them going into the finale as second favourites, behind eventual winners Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal. With Gorka and Helen being one of the most popular couples of Strictly 2022, fans very were much looking forward to seeing them on the tour, which will get going in Birmingham on January 20.
However, Gorka will play no part in the annual event, with Helen instead being at the centre of a partner shake-up, as Gorka has been replaced by Kai Widdrington. Helen started Strictly tour rehearsals earlier this week and was seen behind the scenes with new partner Kai for the first time on Wednesday.
Gorka's absence sparked a lot of speculation from fans, especially given the fact he was at the centre of rumours he was ready to quit Strictly, something he has denied on Instagram, telling a fan 'don't believe' the reports. And it was on Instagram that Spanish pro Gorka spoke out on why he isn't doing the tour.
Fans suggested the reason was that he was preparing to go on a different tour - Firedance with fellow Strictly pro Karen Hauer, but, in response to a direct question from a fan on why he wasn't involved, Gorka revealed the answer lay a lot closer to home, responding: "After the Strictly series I always like to take some down time to spend quality time with Gem and Mia. I am grateful for the work, but I also think spending time with family is important."
Gorka was away from fiancée and former Hollyoaks star Gemma and daughter Mia for extended periods during the latest series of Strictly, in order to train with Helen; even spending a few days with her on location as she hosted Channel 5's On The Farm in early December.
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