If you’re a fan of Strictly Come Dancing, you’ve probably seen Gorka Marquez dazzle on the dance floor with his incredible routines and magnetic on-screen presence. One of the most celebrated pros on the BBC show since joining in 2016, Gorka has not only made waves for his undeniable talent but also for the personal charm that endears him to fans worldwide.
But there’s one question fans find themselves asking quite often—how tall is Gorka Marquez? Is height really such a big deal in the world of dance? And what’s the story behind this talented Spanish dancer’s rise to stardom? This post dives into all of these questions and more, giving you a closer look at Gorka’s life, career, family, and accomplishments.
Who is Gorka Marquez?
Gorka Marquez is a professional Latin and Ballroom dancer and choreographer hailing from Bilbao, Spain. Born on September 4, 1990, Gorka displayed an interest in dance at a young age. At just 12 years old, he began training—and his talent was evident from the beginning.
Over the years, his dedication and hard work propelled him to international acclaim. He represented Spain at the prestigious World Latin Championships in 2010 and reached the semi-finals of the WDSF World Cup in 2012. His flair for performance later landed him a role as a lead dancer in the world-renowned production Burn the Floor, further sharpening his skills on stages around the globe.
Since 2016, Gorka has been a professional dancer on the hit BBC series Strictly Come Dancing. Known for his innovative choreography and ability to adapt to his partner’s strengths, he has become one of the show’s standout pros.
How Tall is Gorka Marquez?
Standing at 5’6″ (1.68m), Gorka is one of the shorter male professionals on Strictly Come Dancing. While height differences often come into play in dance pairings, Gorka’s stature has proven to be an asset rather than a limitation.
His height allows for seamless matches with a diverse range of celebrity partners on the show. From the energetic Alexandra Burke to the elegant Helen Skelton, Gorka’s adaptability shines on stage.
For context, Gorka’s height sits on the shorter end compared to some of his fellow male professionals, such as Kai Widdrington (6’1″) and Giovanni Pernice (5’8″). However, as fans regularly witness, height isn’t what makes a great dancer—it’s the passion, precision, and sheer presence that Gorka exudes.
Career Achievements
On Strictly Come Dancing
Gorka made his Strictly debut in 2016 and quickly gained attention for his artistry and charm, even earning the nickname “Gorka the Corka.” Over the years, he’s delivered unforgettable routines with many celebrity partners. Here are some highlights from his time on the show:
- 2017: Partnered with Alexandra Burke, they reached the finals, delivering a host of show-stopping routines and narrowly missing out on the glitterball trophy.
- 2020: His partnership with Maisie Smith saw the duo make it to the final with impressive dances to tracks like “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa.
- 2022: Teamed up with Helen Skelton, their synergy blew audiences away as they reached the Grand Final.
While Gorka has been a finalist multiple times, he has yet to claim the coveted Strictly glitterball trophy—but fans are confident it’s only a matter of time!
Beyond Strictly
Gorka’s talents extend far beyond the Strictly stage. He featured prominently in Burn the Floor as a lead dancer, touring globally and perfecting his craft.
Additionally, Gorka served as a guest judge on Spain’s Bailando con las Estrellas (the Spanish version of Strictly), proving that his expertise isn’t limited to performing but also includes evaluating talent.
Most recently, in 2023, Gorka took part in a reality TV show, Gemma & Gorka: Life Behind the Lens, which offered audiences a glimpse into his personal and professional life alongside his family.
Family Life and Relationships
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Gorka’s life is his relationship with actress and fitness influencer Gemma Atkinson. The two met backstage during the 2017 season of Strictly Come Dancing, and while they weren’t partnered on the dancefloor, sparks flew off-stage.
After a romantic Valentine’s Day proposal in 2021, Gemma and Gorka became engaged and now share two children, Mia Louise Marquez and Thiago Thomas Marquez.
The couple is beloved by fans, who enjoy glimpses into their family life on social media—from family vacations to Gorka teaching their kids Spanish. While Gorka and Gemma have yet to tie the knot officially, they’ve hinted that they’d like to wait until both their children can be part of the big day.
Gorka Marquez’s Net Worth
Gorka Marquez’s success on Strictly and beyond has secured him a comfortable lifestyle. His estimated net worth sits in the range of $1M – $3M. This wealth comes from several streams, including his earnings from Strictly, global dance tours, reality TV appearances, and endorsements.
The Marquez-Atkinson family resides in a beautiful home in Manchester, where they enjoy a mix of luxurious living and an active, down-to-earth lifestyle.
Fun Facts About Gorka Marquez
- Strictly Nickname: Known as “Gorka the Corka” for his dazzling personality and charm.
- Favorite Dance: The Jive—it’s high-energy and fun!
- Languages: Fluent in Spanish and English—a skill he’s passing on to his children.
Conclusion
Gorka Marquez is more than his height or his dancing skills—he’s proof that talent, drive, and a positive outlook can take you far. Whether he’s jiving his way across the Strictly stage or sharing sweet family moments on social media, Gorka captures hearts worldwide.
Want to follow more of Gorka’s exciting career and family updates? Be sure to check out his Instagram for fresh content and behind-the-scenes glimpses of this remarkable star.
FAQs
Who is the shortest male pro on Strictly Come Dancing?
At 5’6″, Gorka Marquez holds the title of being the shortest male professional on the current Strictly lineup.
Have Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez split up?
No. Gorka and Gemma are happily engaged and share a joyful family life with their two children.
Are Gemma and Gorka married?
Not yet! The couple plans to wait for the perfect moment, likely when their youngest child, Thiago, can walk down the aisle.
How did Gemma Atkinson meet Gorka Marquez?
The pair met during Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, and their strong connection quickly blossomed into a relationship after the show.
