Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez, who has been on the show since 2016, has taken to social media to share a sad family update with his loyal fans
Strictly Come Dancing's Gorka Marquez shared a heartfelt family update on social media that left fans feeling emotional.
Article continues below
The professional dancer, who has been captivating viewers since joining the show in 2016, is adored by audiences nationwide.
Article continues below
The star, who is engaged to Gemma Atkinson, is father to two youngsters, Mia and Thiago.
Article continues below
Arena is a new multi-use entertainment venue in Torquay
Gorka turned to Instagram to update his followers about their beloved family pet Benji's health struggles last month.
The Strictly professional revealed: "Many of you messaged asking how is Benji doing. Unfortunately he didn't get better so I had to take him back to the vets and leave him there to do scans and he ended up having surgery. He is doing well now and this evening he will be back home with us.", reports Wales Online.
In a touching moment, he posted a tearful selfie, writing: "It breaks my heart seeing him like that and to leave him there..." alongside two crying emojis.
After sharing the moving update, Gorka lifted spirits with a snap of his son Thiago, writing: "At least this little man makes me smile all morning" with a red heart emoji, reports the Liverpool Echo.
During the previous series, Gorka and his celebrity partner Dr Punam Krishan reached week six of the BBC competition.
Article continues below
The 34 year old then embarked on a nationwide tour alongside fellow professional Karen Hauer.
At present, Gorka is taking a break from his dancing commitments, cherishing precious moments with Gemma and their little ones.
The pair's love story began when Gemma took part in the BBC dancing show in 2017. Gorka Marquez has revealed his excitement at securing his place on the forthcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, which will mark his tenth year on the programme.
Article continues below
The professional dancer shared his enthusiasm, stating: "STRICTLY 2025. Excited to be back for my 10th Series! Let the countdown begin. Ps: @bbcstrictly get those PVC trousers ordered in every colour."
He will grace the ballroom alongside an impressive roster of professional dancers including Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Amy Dowden, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola.
Beyond his Strictly obligations, Gorka recently took part in the yearly Soccer Aid fixture for UNICEF, representing the World XI squad that triumphed over England at a sold-out Old Trafford.
Article continues below
Looking back on the victory, Gorka commented: "WHAT A NIGHT! ! 15 million pounds Rised for @socceraid @unicef_uk and playing football at Old Trafford along next to some incredible and talented and awesome humans. An experience that I'll never forget! THANK YOU TO everyone who came to watch support and donated."
