The professional dancer was flooded with messages from his Strictly co-stars and fans as he said he was “grateful” in a personal update.
Gorka Marquez (Image: Gorka Marquez Instagram)
Gorka Marquez has been inundated with messages from his Strictly Come Dancing co-stars and fans as he said he was “grateful” in a personal update.
The professional dancer took to social media on Thursday (September 4) to reveal he was celebrating his 35th birthday and it was likely bittersweet as he is still spending time away from his fiancée Gemma Atkinson and their children due to his commitments to the dancing show.
On his Instagram page, Gorka shared a series of black and white photos of himself and told his followers: “35 and grateful for another rotation around the sun.”
Hits radio presenter Gemma was quick to respond, as she commented on his post: “Happy birthday! I love you [heart emojis].” And plenty more birthday wishes came flooding in.
Johannes Radebe said, “Happy birthday Papi.” Jowita Przystal and Nadiya Byckova commented, “Happy birthday.” Neil Jones replied, “Happy birthday bro.” Nancy Xu shared, “Happy birthday Georgeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
His Strictly 2024 celebrity partner Dr Punam Krishnan posted: “Happy Birthday M Prof, hope you have the best day celebrating,” while last year’s finalist Tasha Ghouri wrote: “Happy Birthday Gorka.”
Fans were also keen to share their messages. @Patmason656 said, “Happy birthday handsome Gorka have a fabulous day.” @Kellym1981 replied, “Happy birthday Gorka have a fabulous day.” @tinaboo76 wrote, “Feliz Cumpleanos!! Have a fabulous day!!” @dinakoulla added, “Happy birthday beautiful Gorka.”
Gorka was celebrating his 35th birthday (Image: Gorka Marquez Instagram)
Meanwhile, Gemma also paid tribute to the birthday boy on her own Instagram page. Sharing photos of the pair together over the years, as well as with their two young children, the former Hollyoaks and Emmerdale star shared: “Happy birthday Gorks! [heart emoji]
“Another year around the sun and another year of memories. I’m so proud of you, personally and professionally. This is your time! I can’t wait to celebrate you. The most caring father and an incredible partner, we love you.”
This comes after Gorka confirmed he wouldn’t be competing strictly this year. Taking to Instagram, the professional dancer revealed how he won’t be around for the remainder of the series as he takes on another role, but will be involved in the pre-recorded group numbers that have joined his fellow pros in recent weeks.
The Spaniard told his fans: “I’m happy to announce that I will be returning for the second season of Bailando Con Las Estrellas as a judge from September.
“Due to filming dates, this means I won’t be competing with a partner this year strictly, but I will be part of many group numbers and will be back in the final weeks of the show to support the rest of my fellow pros and their celebrities in what will be an incredible series.”
He rounded off by adding: “As always, thank you for all the love and support and remember! Keep dancing!!!”
