Strictly Come Dancing star Gorka Marquez sent a heartfelt message to his partner Gemma Atkinson over the weekend. The couple met in 2017 when they appeared on Strictly Come Dancing together. The radio presenter was partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec but formed a connection with Gorka.
To celebrate Gemma’s 41st birthday yesterday, November 16, Gorka posted photos of the two together and their children. He wrote: “Happy birthday baby! Like you would say 41 and flawless and is TRUE!
“Today we celebrate you and how amazing, special and unique you are. I am proud of everything you do and who you are and grateful for all what you do for us. Another year to cherish to make laugh, to dance around and make more memories. I love you, we love you.”
The couple share regular updates about their busy lives. In early February 2019, Gemma announced the news that she was pregnant with their first child.
Sharing a picture of her two dogs, Gemma told fans: “And what Amazing big brothers they will be! Myself & Gorks are beyond excited and happy and feel incredibly blessed to be meeting our new family member later this year. Baby Marquez.”
The couple became parents for the first time in July 2019, welcoming daughter Mia Louise into the world. In 2021, the couple announced their engagement together. Gemma and Gorka have two children together, they welcomed a son called Thiago Marquez in 2023.
Birthday messages were sent to Gemma by fans and friends. Dr Punam Krishan wrote: “Gorgeous photos of a gorgeous woman, happy birthday. Hope you’re spoiling her rotten today Gorka.”
Jowita Pryzstal commented “Happy Birthday Gemma” and Michelle Hardwick posted: “Happy birthday Gemma have the best day”, alongside a red love heart emoji.
Messages from fans included “Happy birthday, may your day be filled fun, love and cake” and “Happy birthday Gemma, have a great day with your family.”
Gemma has been supportive of Gorka and his time on Strictly and sometimes attends shows. While Strictly returned to our screens in September, Gorka confirmed that he will not be dancing with a celebrity on this series.
In a post on Instagram, the Spanish pro informed his followers that he will be taking on the role of a judge on the Spanish edition of Strictly for the second time.
The post on Instagram said: “I am Happy to announce that I will be back for season two of BAILANDO CON LAS ESTRELLAS as a judge from September.
“Due to the filming dates this means that I won’t be competing with a partner this year in Strictly but I will be a part of lots of the group numbers and will be back for final weeks of the show to support the rest of my fellow pros and their celebrities in what is going to be an AMAZING SERIES. As always thank you for all The love and support and remember! Keep dancing!”