Gemma Atkinson has publically shown her support for her fiancé after he was forced to pull out of an upcoming tour. Gorka Marquez announced on Wednesday morning (June 8) that he is no longer taking part in Strictly Presents... Keeeep Dancing which starts later this month.
The show features some of the BBC One dance contest's professional dancers and past celebrity contestants in a show that will give audiences a chance to go behind the glitterball and into the sparkly world of Strictly Come dancing with 'unique insight into the smash hit TV show via stunning choreography and fascinating storytelling.'
Gorka, 31, was due to join his 2020 dance partner Maisie Smith, Strictly 2021 semi-finalist and CBBC presenter Rhys Stephenson and professionals Neil Jones, Jowita Przystal and Nancy Xu for the string of shows which will also feature live music from The Wanted's Max George, another Strictly 2020 series alumnus.
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The Spanish dancer shared a post to his Instagram Story confirming his withdrawal from the tour as announced by the official Strictly Live team. He then returned to explain to his thousands of follower that he suffered an injury during the 'Strictly Professionals' tour earlier this year.
While he was able to continue with the tour, which opened in Salford back in April, with 'treatment and care', he has since suffered a 'flare-up' and has had to pull out on doctors and physios orders.
Gorka added he was "very sad" to be able to dance with Maisie again "and the rest of the cast" but promised fans that it'll be an amazing show and that he'll now be resting and undergoing rehab to make sure he's ready for the return of the series later in the year.
Following his announcement, Gemma took to Instagram with her own message about the situation, sharing her pride for her husband-to-be. Sharing Gorka's post to her Instagram Story, she told her millions of followers: "Gorks was in so much pain the last few weeks of the tour."
The 37-year-old, who met Gorka during her stint on Strictly back in 2017, added: "Proud of him for getting through it. Now, on the orders of doctors and physios, it's rest and rehab ready for Strictly 2022!"
She was also quick to comment on his Instagram post, writing: " Proud of you for getting through those last few weeks! I know how painful it was for you at times. Rest and rehab then back to the show," before cheekily adding: "Can’t have you home for too long messing up my routine."
Gorka's Strictly co-stars were also sharing their love and support. Dianne Buswell said: "Love ya bro xxx take care of ya self." Graziano Di Prima wrote: "Get well soon bro!!" Former Strictly pro and It Takes Two host Janette Manrara commented: "I hope you get better soon. We’ll miss you in the show! Sending all the positive get well soon energy your way."
Meanwhile, Gemma's former Emmerdale co-star Anthony Quinlan replied: " So sorry to hear this, rest up mate. Hope you have a quick recovery!" Gorka will be replaced by South African Latin champion Cameron Lombard, it has been announced. He joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2021 and he will be part of the line-up of professionals when the hit BBC One show returns for its 20th series this autumn.
