Gemma Atkinson addresses Gorka Marquez’s Strictly career ending

Gemma & Gorka: Life Behind the Lens episode two trailer Gemma Atkinson has opened up about her husband Gorka Márquez’s dance career and whether or not he could still be performing on Strictly Come Dancing at 60. On the first episode of her new podcast, The Overshare with Gemma Atkinson, the 38-year-old got candid while discussing ageing bodies. On an episode titled ‘Bodies – why we love them, why we loathe them’ the Hollyoaks star spoke to a caller called Amie. During the conversation, Gemma remarked that as adults age, she believes personality may become more important than looks. She said: ‘When you’re both in your 70s in your armchair – you’re gonna want to have a laugh, not look at a six-pack.’ Gemma discussed whether Gorka would still be doing the Salsa at 60 ‘In 20 years you won’t look the same, will you? Imagine Gorka salsaing when he’s 60-odd!’ When queried whether Gorka, 33, could truly still be strutting his stuff on the BBC ballroom floor in 27 years time, Gemma said: ‘Not on my watch he won’t!’ Late last year, Gemma shut down rumours that her partner wanted to quit Strictly after six seasons on the show. At the time, a source told The Sun: ‘Gorka has become an established figure in the contest and a name in his own right, which could allow him to go on to bigger things.’ Rubbishing the claims, Gemma said: ‘Keep being sent this. Wish I hadn’t said to all backstage crew ‘see you next year’ now. “Obvs this isn’t true at all! Same as it wasn’t true about Gio last year. Merry Christmas!” On Strictly this season, Gorka is paired with Nikita SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info The Spanish dancer first joined the Strictly family in 2016, where he was paired with actor Tameka Empson for the show’s 14th series. One year later, the elusive Glitterball Trophy was just out of his reach as he and Alexandra Burke came second to 2017 champions Joe McFadden and Katya Jones. After landing 13th place with Katie Piper the year after, Gorka eventually reached the final again in 2020 – this time with former EastEnders star Maisie Smith. Last year, Gorka came second in the competition again, this time with Countryfile’s Helen Skelton. The couple lost out to Hamza Yassin and his professional partner Jowita Przystal. Speaking about the disappointing loss during season 20 of Strictly, the father-of-two said: ‘I wasn’t fuming but I wanted Helen to finish the season with the cherry on top. But I was very happy for Hamza and Jowita – they’ve been amazing.’ Trending Strictly Come Dancing 2023 Line-Up