STRICTLY pro Gorka Marquez has told pals of his “relief” to be ducking out this year’s doomed series.
The 34-year-old Spaniard, part of the BBC hit for nearly a decade, has signed as a judge on his home country’s version of the show, Bailando con las Estrellas.
Strictly pro Gorka Marquez has told pals of his ‘relief’ to be ducking out this year’s toxic series[/caption]
Gorka joined Strictly in 2016, pictured on the show in 2024[/caption]
He has already taken part in the new Beeb series’ group dances but won’t be in the main run.
And Gorka has told pals that the timing of his exit could not have been better.
A source said: “Gorka loves Strictly and is so proud to be one of the longest-serving pros, but has said he’ll be relieved not to be there during another fraught series while the show and its cast are accused of toxic behaviour.
“He’s very excited to have been part of the group dances, which were pre-recorded, and loves everyone on the show.
“But this is the third series where they face questions about bullying, chaperones and everything else.
“He told friends he can’t deny the timing has worked out well and he’s looking forward to spreading his wings on Spanish Strictly.”
The Sun on Sunday reported this week that an unnamed Strictly star had been arrested on suspicion of rape.
It follows allegations that two stars had abused cocaine and earlier claims of bullying and other inappropriate behaviour.
Unrelated scandals include Amanda Abbington accusing Giovanni Pernice of bullying in 2023 and opera singer Wynne Evans making a “spit-roast” comment at the Strictly tour photocall last year.
Gorka joined Strictly in 2016 and has reached the final three times.
A spokesperson for Gorka said: “Gorka does not feel this way at all; he is delighted to still be a part of Strictly alongside his Spanish filming schedule.”