Strictly star Gorka Márquez lands exciting new TV role

Strictly Come Dancing's Gorka Márquez has announced a new TV role that will see him swap the dancefloor for the judges' desk.

The Strictly professional, who last year was partnered with radio DJ Nikita Kanda, has joined the judging panel of his home country Spain's equivalent show, Bailando con las Estrellas.

Gorka joined Strictly back in 2016 and has made three finals across his eight years on the show so far – with Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith and Helen Skelton.

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The dancer announced the exciting career move on his Instagram, and wrote: "I finally can share the news that I will be one of the judges in the Spanish version of Strictly, Bailando con las Estrellas @bailandoest.

"So excited to [be] back in Spain and doing the show that changed my whole life and excited to be sat on the other side of the floor this time even if I am not sure I will be able to hold myself and not dance.

"First show is this Saturday and I can't wait."

Gorka was showered with praise from his Strictly family in the comments section, celebrating his new role.

Gemma Atkinson, Gorka's fiancée and a former Strictly contestant, wrote: "Woohoo! So proud and so excited to watch (if I can figure out the Spanish tele)."

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EastEnders actress Tameka Empson, who was Gorka's first-ever partner on the show, commented: "Well done Gorka!! If ever you want to show off your dancing skills [with] a partner, I'll be ready to jump on a plane and help you out! Remember Tamorka for ever!!!"

Fellow professional Katya Jones wrote, "Get in!!!! Go show them Gorks!!!!", while pros including Dianne Buswell, Luba Mushtuk, Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe also congratulated him with supportive messages.

As the Spanish series kicks off this week, Gorka's new role won't interfere with his Strictly commitments – and he is also set to appear on the Strictly Come Dancing The Professionals UK tour later this year.

Strictly Come Dancing will return later this year on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

Tickets for Strictly's 2024 live arena tour are available now.

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