✨ Gorka Marquez

Gorka Marquez is a sensational Spanish Latin dancer, choreographer and judge, best known for his appearances on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing. Born on 4th September 1990 in Bilbao, Spain, Gorka began dancing at the age of 12 and represented Spain in the World Latin Championships in 2010.

Gorka Marquez Latest News – In April 2026, Gorka announced that he will not be returning to Strictly Come Dancing.

In Autumn 2025 Gorka returned as a judge on season two of Bailando Con Las Estrellas Spain.

Before joining Strictly in 2016, Gorka toured globally with Burn the Floor, showcasing his Latin and Ballroom expertise. His charismatic stage presence, precise technique and cheeky personality have made him a fan favourite on Strictly.

Learn more about Gorka’s dancing career, dance partners, relationships, awards, photos, facts, age, height, and read his latest news, announcements and tours. Table of contents

• Who is Gorka’s Celebrity Partner in Strictly 2025?
• Where can I meet Gorka Marquez?
• How old is Gorka Marquez?
• How tall is Gorka Marquez?
• Where is Gorka Marquez from?
• Is Gorka Marquez in a relationship?

Who was Gorka Marquez’s 2024 Strictly partner?

In the 2024 series of Strictly Come Dancing, Gorka was partnered with NHS doctor and TV personality Dr Punam Krishan. Their partnership brought warmth and energy to the dancefloor, with memorable routines including a Cha Cha to Love At First Sight by Kylie Minogue and a Bollywood Couple’s Choice dance dedicated to Punam’s late grandfather during Movie Week.

Who was Gorka’s Celebrity Partner in Strictly 2025?

Due to being a judge for season two of Bailando Con Las Estrellas, the Spanish version of Strictly, Gorka didn’t have a celebrity partner in 2025.

How can you dance with Gorka Marquez?

You can dance with Gorka Marquez and fellow Strictly stars at Donahey’s Dancing With The Stars Weekends.

Who better to teach you to dance than the professional dancers from Strictly Come Dancing? You can meet the stars, learn their steps and be captivated as they perform spectacular shows just for you.

📆 Friday 5th – Sunday 7th March 2027
📍 4* Alton Towers Resort Hotel, Staffordshire
⌛ Early Bird £659pp Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
💃 Strictly Stars confirmed – Kai Widdrington & Lauren Oakley, Julian Caillon, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, David Cockram & Rosie Ward
🛏️ Double, Twin, Triple & Themed Bedrooms available
✨ Over half the rooms already sold!

⭐ Join Strictly Come Dancing Stars Kai Widdrington & Lauren Oakley, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Julian Caillon, British Showdance Champions David Cockram & Rosie Ward, Argentine Tango Stars Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, plus the Tony Greenwood Big Band at the fabulous Alton Towers Resort Hotel ⭐

Google Reviews of Donaheys Weekend Breaks

Excellent

Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend5.0

Based on 264 reviews

Suzanne Greenop

2 months ago

Amazing weekend! We were thoroughly entertained throughout. Highly recommend if you love dancing.

Teresa Doherty

2 months ago

Absolutely wonderful - can’t recommend enough!!

Hereward Gas

2 months ago

Paul Smith

2 months ago

An Unforgettable, Starry-Eyed Strictly Experience at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We came away completely starry-eyed as first-timers at the Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel. An exceptional experience – incredibly well organised and it exceeded all expectations from start to finish. The hotel was fantastic – great staff, a lovely room with a view, and a delicious variety of vegetarian options which we really appreciated. As complete beginners, the 7 hours of dance tuition were inspiring and great fun. Learning from the Strictly professionals – Aljaž Škorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Anton Du Beke, and Gorka Márquez & Karen Hauer – was a real highlight. They were so supportive and made everything enjoyable. The evenings were pure glamour and glitz, with stunning professional performances. The Black Tie Ball with the Tony Greenwood 15-piece Big Band was brilliant – a perfect chance to practise what we’d learned. Being among 400 like-minded people created such a fun, friendly atmosphere. A truly memorable weekend – we would highly recommend it and will definitely be back! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

John Vaughan

2 months ago

My wife and I went to our 1st Donahey's Weekend in April @ Celtic Manor . We did have a preconceived idea as to how it would go but , honestly , we were simply blown away . The Hotel was magnificent . The quality of the food , service and facilities was top class . The 2 Ballrooms were superb . Getting to see the Strictly Stars up close was an incredible experience . They were each so kind , generous and patient and we had great fun learning 7 different Dances which we got to practice on the floor on Friday and Saturday evening . There are 4 levels so everyone can enjoy learning at their own standard . The people we met were fabulous and everyone mixed so well . The atmosphere was electric . Paul and his ' Dance Family ' were so lovely , approachable and helpful . Their organisation of the weekend was a fantastic ' 10 ' and the weekend flowed like an beautifully fluid Ballroom dance . We could go on and on but will finish by saying . If you love Strictly and enjoy dancing , a Donahey's Weekend MUST go on your Bucket List . You will not be disappointed . We are definately going back John & Olive Vaughan ( Cork - Ireland )

PAUL DOWNS

2 months ago

Our first time attending a weekend of dancing with the stars. What an incredible experience. The entire weekend was so professionally organised. The Donaheys Team are so friendly, helpful and attentive. We are complete novices with zero experience. The classes are structured into 4 categories, depending upon your experience. We were in the Red class for those learning steps for the very first time. This worked so well. Going in with zero expectations (other than to enjoy) and leaving each class with some basic steps was really fun and fulfilling. The entire weekend was organised by people who seriously know what they’re doing! To have your first classes ever being instructed by the likes of Aljaz and Janette, Anton, Giovanni and the wonderful Argentine Tango specialists Maria and Alejandro (who choreograph all the strictly Argentine Tango routines) was special. The British Showdance Champions, Rosie and David were a joy to watch and we really enjoyed their Foxtrot lesson. What lovely people they all are. So kind and warm. The evening shows on Friday and Saturday evening were amazing. Intimate performances from all of the teachers and stars and some special guests from the World of dance and song!. Great entertainment. The shows were worth the fee!! We have booked again for 2027 and we can’t wait. Would highly recommend, especially for those wanting a first dance experience or are looking to build on their basic skills and for those wanting a weekend of great entertainment. The Celtic Manor is an amazing venue too. Loved it! Thanks to the entire Donaheys Team Esther and Paul ❤️

Andrea Dobson

2 months ago

Huge congratulations to Paul and his fabulous team for delivering a fantastic weekend, absolutely jam packed with dance instruction, dance showcases and lots of fun. We were really looking forward to it anyway, but the whole experience completely surpassed are high expectations! Well done and thank you team Donaheys!

Martin Gerrard

2 months ago

I had been advised that I would enjoy the dance weekend but the experience exceeded any of my expectations... The hotel was wonderful, the Strictly dancers were as pleasant and helpful as they could possibly be, the organisation and timing of all the workshops was just perfect... I have already booked for next year and would recommend the dance weekends to anyone and everyone!! Well done Donaheys!!

The Dream

2 months ago

Amazing weekend, it was our first time going and it was even better than expected, we have re booked to back next year. 💃💃💃

Wendy Rathbone

2 months ago

We had an amazing time at our first Donaheys weekend. We stayed at the Celtic Manor hotel in April 2026. The organisation beforehand was excellent, with timely emails asking for information or confirming details. A very comprehensive email came out about a month ahead of time which dealt with all the details you need to know. The weekend itself ran like clockwork. We had just the right amount of workshops, there was breathing space in-between, and we were never bored. There is a lot of dancing available, either in social sessions or the workshops. All abilities are catered for in 4 separate workshops: absolute beginners up to more experienced dancers. It was lovely to see so many dancers with such a wide range of experience enjoying their dancing. We never felt judged or out of place on the dance floor or at any time. All of the lessons were excellent and well structured. It was super exciting to be taught the cha cha by Aljaz and Janette, and the waltz by Anton. Every single Strictly star and all of the teachers were so kind, nice people and very helpful. We have already booked for next year and strongly recommend it if you are thinking about it. The weekends do sell out! All the Donaheys people were professional, kind and helpful and there was just a lovely vibe to the whole weekend.

Lorraine Dicker (Fred)

3 months ago

Wonderful weekend we just had at Celtic Manor with the Donaheys team Fabulous line up of stars. Brilliant workshop on how to do certain dances. Wonderful friendly staff and guests. Had. A couple of minor issues which I want to thank Jackie and Tracy for sorting these out efficiently. Enjoyed it so much have booked for next year. Keep Dancing. 💃💃🕺💃

Richard Thompson

3 months ago

Just back from Celtic Manor. Unfortunately due to some knee surgery i wasn't able to dance. As always Paul and his team were on hand to make me as comfortable as possible. The showcases were exceptional with the youngsters quickstep routines my favourite. All stars were approachable and clearly enjoyed being part of Donaheys family. The DSI behind the scenes a very interesting addition. All booked for next year. See you all there.

Martyn Reid

3 months ago

Another wonderful action packed fun Donaheys weekend at the Celtic Manor, Newport. Being tutored up close by the Strictly Stars and professionals in such a friendly environment was such a great experience. Hats off to the Donaheys team too for making the whole event run so smoothly, thanks for the memories, Martyn & Nyree

Trudy Walmsley

3 months ago

Fabulous weekend. My first time and, with no dancing experience, I was a bit apprehensive. The weekend was really well organised, I learned far more than I expected and the accommodation was lovely. Thank you to all involved.

Hereward Gas

3 months ago

What a fantastic time we had at the De Vere Beaumont Estate Windsor, at the Donaheys dancing with the stars weekend. We had a fabulous dance lessons with the stars and in the evenings we watched the professionals incredible showcase dances. The black tie ball with a 15 piece band was fantastic. We love it so much we have already booked to return for our 4th years next year.Thank you Paul.Amy and all the Donaheys Team for all your hard work and for making it another memorable weekend.Looking forward to nest year . Tony & Amanda

Nigel Skinner

3 months ago

Another fab-u-lous weekend of dance with Donaheys. This has been our 6th visit and it never fails to inspire us. Extremely well organised, fitting in so much in one weekend! We have already booked our 7th visit.

les williams

3 months ago

What an incredible weekend 👏 As a complete beginner (my only experience being classic Dad dancing at parties), I genuinely didn’t know what to expect but booking this was one of the best decisions we’ve made. My wife loves Strictly, I wanted to book something for a nice surprise, that she would enjoy. I found Donahey”s Online, so I booked. The professional line-up looked outstanding, and travelling from Lincolnshire to Berkshire turned out to be more than worth it. Huge thanks to @mrantondubeke, @rosie_rw, @ellingtonlance, @leandropalou1, @maria_tsiatsiani, @pernicegiovann1, @david_and_rosie_, @michelle_tsiak, @simonearena_official, @kaiwidd and @laurenmayoakley, the level of talent was matched by the encouragement, patience and energy you brought. You made complete beginners feel comfortable and capable from the first step. An unforgettable experience fun, welcoming, and brilliantly run. Paul, Shirley, Amy and the team should be incredibly proud of what they’ve created. Safe to say… we’ve already booked again for 2027.

Beverley Gough

3 months ago

The Amazing Donaheys Dancing with the Stars Weekend We have spent a fantastic weekend with Donaheys, Dancing with the Stars, at De Vere Estate Windsor I can't speak highly enough of the entire experience! The magnificent Donaheys Team are a highly professional Family run Team who deliver perfection every time. It's fantastic to get up close and personal with the Strictly Stars in the dance workshops and photocalls. Truly an experience not to be missed. And the Showcases are absolutely out of this world A-MAZ-ING! The organisation and precision of the entire weekend, coordinating the workshops for all abilities, from Beginners, and Intermediate to Advanced Dancers. This makes for an amazing experience. The Team are extremely helpful and whatever your question, they are always on hand to help and advise. The Donaheys Team work hard 52 weeks a year to bring Dancing with the Stars weekend to us. If you haven't been to one of these weekends, then you are in for a truly wonderful experience. The is a 5* plus weekend in any of their resorts. I highly recommend Donaheys dance weekends, you will fall in love with Dance, of that you can be sure! Keeeep Dancing! Beverley

Rosie Priestley

3 months ago

Great weekend

Jo Covey

3 months ago

THE BEST WEEKEND !! we had never attended one of these weekends before but we were not disappointed, the whole weekend exceeded our expectations. My husband and I are both in our 50’s and had never danced before ( apart from a taster at learn to dance in a day with donaheys) all the classes were amazing and such fun ( we were red band for beginners ) to be able to have classes with some of the strictly pros and other pro dancers was amazing. The showcases were brilliant and the black tie ball was fab to see everyone dressed up. All the donaheys team were fab and so helpful. Hotel was lovely just outside of Windsor and food was lovely a great choice. The whole weekend was so well organised and was great to meet other people who love dancing. We got home yesterday evening and I’m still buzzing from it. We have already booked to go again next year. I can definitely recommend this weekend and whatever your dance level you will love it !!

Roger N

3 months ago

An incredible experience. Brilliant performances from the stars. The Donahey planning and support throughout the booking and the weekend experience was exceptional. The hotel was great. Cannot thank Donaheys and their sparkling star performers enough.

Sharon Reed

3 months ago

Having joined the Donaheys team for our 3rd year at Alton Towers I can honestly say this is one of the best weekends of the year. Everyone is so happy and eager to learn and for us it is a joy to catch up with both the Donaheys team and all the other returning guests who have now become friends. My Mum and I want to thank everyone involved in creating these magical weekends. I am currently practicing at home with the fantastic online courses and can’t wait to use what I have learned on the dance floor next year!

Derek Bish

4 months ago

We had a fantastic weekend at Alton Towers hotel. From start to finish the weekend was superbly organised. All the Donaheys team are very friendly and helpful. We loved the lessons with the strictly stars, David and Rosie and Tony Bennett. The showcases were fab-u-lous! The location is great and the hotel staff are brilliant. We have booked again for 2027 and can't wait!

Joanne Clark

4 months ago

It is always a fantastic weekend. Great to see Strictly stars up close but David and Rosie are always a highlight for me. Looking forward to next year.

Margaret Lloyd

4 months ago

10 of us had a FAB U LOUS weekend of dance and fun. Paul and the Donaheys Team are super friendly, kind and accomodating. They are all welcoming and helpful, both on the dance floor and off. The ballrooms are spacious and well planned, there is ample seating for the evenings entertainment. We learned new dances from the Stars, heard their personal stories and were blown away by their magnificent performances during their showtime. Even thinking about them leaves me breathless! David and Rosie were around at Practice sessions to help, their show was amazing. I love them ❤️ We ve booked for next year, choosing an alternative venue as it's nearer to travel.

Gorka Marquez Facts – Height, Age, Dance Partners, Relationships, Awards, Tours

How old is Gorka Marquez?

Gorka Marquez is 35 years old, having been born on 4th September 1990.

How tall is Gorka Marquez?

Gorka’s height is 5′ 6″ (1.68 m).

Where is Gorka Marquez from?

Gorka is from Bilbao, Spain, where he began his dance journey before moving into the international spotlight.

Is Gorka Marquez in a relationship?

Yes, Gorka is engaged to actress and presenter Gemma Atkinson. They began dating in 2018 after meeting on Strictly Come Dancing. The couple welcomed their daughter Mia in 2019 and their son Thiago Thomas in 2023.

What are Gorka’s greatest dance achievements?

• Representing Spain in the World Latin Championships (2010)
  
• Reaching the semi-finals of the WDSF World Cup (2012)
  
• Touring globally with Burn the Floor as a lead dancer (2014)
  
• Becoming a Strictly Come Dancing professional in 2016

Gorka is also known for scoring more 10’s than any other current pro on Strictly.

Is Gorka Marquez a Strictly Judge?

In 2024, Gorka joined the Spanish version of Strictly Come Dancing (Bailando con las Estrellas) as a judge, returning to Spain to share his expertise on the other side of the dancefloor.

What’s Gorka’s favourite dance?

We’ll let you know the next time we catch up with him!

Who has Gorka Marquez danced with on Strictly?

Has Gorka Marquez ever won Strictly?

He has not yet won the Glitterball trophy. Gorka made it to the 2022 finals with Helen Skelton, the 2020 Strictly finals with actress Maisie Smith and the 2017 series of Strictly Come Dancing with Alexandra Burke.

Find out who has won BBC Strictly Come Dancing with our full list of past Strictly winners from 2004 here – Strictly Winners

Fun Gorka Marquez Fact

Gorka is affectionately known on Strictly Come Dancing as Gorka the corker!

Has Gorka ever had a wardrobe malfunction on Strictly?

Not that we know of! Gorka’s performances are always polished, and he’s yet to have a wardrobe mishap on Strictly.

Find out more about Gorka’s dancing profile on his official BBC Strictly Come Dancing profile page.

BBC Strictly Come Dancing

Find out more information about the BBC TV programme Strictly Come Dancing
by checking out the BBC Strictly Come Dancing website
www.bbc.co.uk/strictlycomedancing

Donahey’s Dance Lessons & 4* UK Weekend Breaks are not associated with BBC Studios

Gorka Marquez Tour Dates & Venues

Find out all about Karen Hauer & Gorka Marquez’s 2025 Speakeasy tour
speakeasylive.co.uk

Meet all the Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancers

Learn more about all your favourite Strictly Pro’s here

– Aljaz Skorjanec
– Alexis Warr
– Amy Dowden MBE
– Carlos Gu
– Dianne Buswell
– Giovanni Pernice
– Gorka Marquez
– Johannes Radebe
– Jowita Przystal
– Julian Caillon
– Kai Widdrington
– Karen Hauer
– Katya Jones
– Lauren Oakley
– Luba Mushtuk
– Michelle Tsiakkas
– Nadiya Bychkova
– Nancy Xu
– Neil Jones
– Nikita Kuzmin
– Vito Coppola

Meet the Strictly Come Dancing Presenters

Learn more about Strictly presenters Emma Willis, Josh Widdecombe and Johannes Radebe

Meet all the Strictly Come Dancing Judges

Learn more about all the Strictly Judges here;
– Anton du Beke
– Shirley Ballas
– Motsi Mabuse
– Craig Revel Horwood