Gorka Marquez has given a brief yet encouraging response to seeing his Strictly Come Dancing partner, Helen Skelton, moving on with a new pro for the show's live tour.
After they wowed both the Strictly judges and viewers at home with their fantastic chemistry and dazzling performances, Gorka and Helen were many people's pick to win the latest series of the BBC show. Sadly for them, they were beaten to the Glitterball trophy by Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal, but they did get their first 40 in the final, thanks to Craig Revel-Horwood finally being swayed to dust off his 10 paddle for their Couple's Choice.
That is the routine that many Strictly fans were hoping to see them recreate on the arena tour, which gets going in Birmingham this weekend; but unfortunately, while Helen may still do it, it won't be with Gorka as he isn't doing the tour. Instead, Helen will dance with Kai Widdrington, fresh from his victory on the Strictly Christmas special.
The newly formed couple have been rehearsing together for the last week and Helen shared her excitement for the tour in a post shared by the show's official Instagram The post was a photo of Helen and Kai, along with a short statement from the ex Blue Peter presenter which read: "Strictly has been the adventure of a lifetime and I'm so happy that it will continue on the live tour. I’m really looking forward to seeing the fans across the country and performing my favourite dances from the series. I can't wait!"
Gorka was quick to respond to the post, replying: "LG Team," with Kai replying: "Let's go."
When Gorka's name was missing from the Strictly tour line-up, questions were asked to why he wasn't doing it and, last week, Gorka revealed his touching reason for turning it down, telling fans on Instagram: "After the Strictly series I always like to take some down time to spend quality time with Gem and Mia. I am grateful for the work, but I also think spending time with family is important."
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