Gorka Marquez won't have celebrity partner on Strictly Come Dancing

22 August 2019

Gorka Marquez won't be partnered with a celebrity on this year's 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

Gorka Marquez

The 28-year-old Spanish dancer has revealed he will only be taking part in the group dances this year - but vowed to be "fighting" for the Glitter Ball trophy in 2020.

He wrote on Instagram: "For everybody that's been asking, I can let you know that this series, I sadly won't be partnered with a celebrity for the main series of Strictly. However, I will still be heavily involved in all of the group numbers and all things Strictly!

I'm excited to see this year's celebs and my fellow professionals dance for the Glitter Ball and I hope to be back fighting for it next year.

As always, it's gonna be a GREAT series. (sic)"

When as fan suggested it was because he wanted to spend more time with his baby daughter, Mia Louise, who was born on July 4, and his partner Gemma Atkinson, Gorka insisted the decision was made by bosses on the BBC One ballroom and Latin show.

The follower commented: "Nooo why?? You are brilliant?? I hope it's your choice so you can spend more time with baby and mum x (sic)"

And Gorka replied: "not really, LOL

But I will (sic)"

Gorka's announcement comes shortly after fellow dancer Graziano Di Prima revealed he will also be without a celebrity partner.

He said in a statement: "Just letting all the fans know that I will not have a celeb partner this series, but don't worry... I am not going anywhere!

"You will see me every Saturday/Sunday nights in all our amazing group dances, on It Takes Two and across the series. We have some amazing routines already and I can't wait for you to see them all!

"To my fellow pro's, good luck for a magical series! Let's do this and I love you all! Graz. (sic)"

The 2019 shows will once again be hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as they welcome the celebrities and their partners to the floor each week.

Celebrities Anneka Rice, Dev Griffin, James Cracknell, Alex Scott, Jamie Laing, Will Bayley, Michelle Visage, Viscountess Emma Weymouth, Karim Zeroual, Mike Bushell, Catherine Tyldesley, Saffron Barker, David James, Chris Ramsey and Emma Barton will go head-to-head to win the coveted Glitter Ball Trophy.

New judge Motsi Mabuse - the sister of the show's professional Oti Mabuse - will make her debut as a judge alongside Bruno Tonioli, Craig Revel Horwood and Shirley Ballas.