Gorka Marquez, a prominent dancer from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, recently celebrated a significant career milestone. On November 24, 2025, he announced during an appearance on ITV’s This Morning that he is the first dancer to appear on the cover of Men’s Health magazine. This groundbreaking achievement highlights not only his talent but also the physical intensity required for dance.
Gorka Marquez on His Achievement
During the interview, hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard praised Gorka for this accomplishment. Ben emphasized that being featured on Men’s Health is not a common honor, especially for dancers. Gorka expressed his surprise and excitement, stating, “I can’t believe it.” He hopes this recognition will help the public see dancers as athletes.
The Athletic Demands of Dance
In the discussion, Gorka compared the physical demands of dancing to other sports. He mentioned that, unlike footballers, dancers perform extensive shows daily. “When we go on tour, we do two shows of two hours every day, and we struggle,” he noted. This comparison aims to elevate dancers’ status in the athletic community.
Podcast Venture and Future Plans
In addition to his magazine feature, Gorka is working on a podcast with his partner, Gemma Atkinson. Gemma mentioned that Gorka’s fitness routine remains consistent year-round, making it easier for him to prepare for photo shoots. However, she emphasized that her preparation varies more significantly from season to season.
Earlier in the year, Gorka announced that he would not compete in the current season of Strictly Come Dancing due to commitments as a judge on the Spanish version, BAILANDO CON LAS ESTRELLAS. Despite this, he will participate in group performances and return for the show’s finale.
Support for Fellow Contestants
During the interview, Gemma expressed her support for dancers Karen Carney and Carlos Gu, highlighting their progress in the competition. Her enthusiasm underlines the camaraderie and spirit of collaboration among the contestants on Strictly Come Dancing.
- Event Date: November 24, 2025
- Show: Strictly Come Dancing, ITV’s This Morning
- Magazine Feature: First dancer on Men’s Health cover
- Current Role: Judge on BAILANDO CON LAS ESTRELLAS
This groundbreaking moment for Gorka Marquez not only celebrates his personal success but also brings attention to the sport of dance, showcasing its athleticism and dedication. Gorka invites the audience to recognize dancers for their hard work and commitment, contributing to a broader understanding of their craft.
