Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Márquez has opened up on not joining dance partner Helen Skelton on the upcoming live tour.
The dancer was paired with the TV presenter and actress for the landmark 20th series of the show, waltzing their way into the final.
But the pair were pipped to the Glitterball Trophy by Countryfile presenter Hamza Yassin and his dance partner Jowita Przystał.
Related: Strictly star Alex Scott unveils new hair transformation
Many may have been hoping to see Márquez and Skelton hit the dancefloor once more on the Strictly live tour, which kicked off at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena on January 20. However, Márquez will not be dusting off his dance shoes for the shows.
Speaking to Metro.co.uk, he said he is grateful for "so many opportunities to do so many jobs", but he also enjoys winding down for some family time.
"To do my job you have to be in the right space, physically and mentally, and that means sometimes it’s good to take time off. Life goes too quick to be always working," he said.
Related: Strictly star Rose Ayling-Ellis speaks out after "shocking" theatre incident
He went on to say that he is proud of what his former dance partner did on the show.
“She’s in great hands with Kai [Widdrington], who’s an amazing dancer and an amazing choreographer,” he added.
“They’ve done five shows and she’s already won two, so it shows she’s in great hands. I couldn’t wait to go to Manchester and see her. I was cheering like a proud dad.”
Related: Strictly star Gemma Atkinson shares hint about potential names for her baby
The news comes after Márquez and his fiancée, actress and radio presenter Gemma Atkinson, announced they are expecting their second child.
The pair already share one child, a daughter named Mia, born in 2019, and they are now expecting their first son.
Atkinson shared the news in an Instagram post where she highlighted her blossoming bump.
Related: Strictly's Kevin Clifton shares special detail about moment Stacey Dooley gave birth
She wrote: “Impossible to hide my belly any longer. I’ve officially ‘popped.’ Our baby boy will be joining our family later this year.
“We feel so incredibly blessed and Grateful to be on this journey again.
“Mia is absolutely thrilled! Although we may need to do some negotiating on names, as so far she’s adamant he’s going to be called Barbie.”
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