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  "path": "/celebrity/gemma-atkinson-bbc-strictly-axing-gorka-marquez-future-under-threat",
  "publishedAt": "2026-03-27T13:57:50.000Z",
  "site": "https://www.gbnews.com",
  "tags": [
    "View this post on Instagram",
    "A post shared by Nadiya Bychkova (@nadiyabychkova)",
    "A post shared by Luba Mushtuk (@lubamushtuk)",
    "BBC Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk becomes latest star axed from series as she issues heartfelt statement",
    "JK Rowling issues verdict on Harry Potter adaptation trailer despite backlash from fans",
    "ITV Coronation Street legend prompts return hopes after reuniting with co-stars",
    "The GB News Editorial Charter"
  ],
  "textContent": "\n\n\nGemma Atkinson, who is married to Gorka Marquez, has responded to the wave of departures with a notably upbeat message.\n\nOver the last few weeks, there have been ongoing rumours that many of the popular professional dancers were being axed from the series.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nThe latest to confirm their departurea are Karen Hauer, Luba Mushtuk and Nadiya Bychkova.\n\nMs Bychkova issued a statement via Instagram, which read: “After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n>        View this post on Instagram            \n>\n> A post shared by Nadiya Bychkova (@nadiyabychkova)\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n“Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for.\n\n“This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore. Thank you for all the love and support along the way.”\n\nMs Atkinson made her feelings clear towards the ongoing cull of professionals as she commented underneath Ms Bychkova’s post.\n\nThe actress wrote: \"Every finish line is the beginning of new race. Exciting times!\"\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n>        View this post on Instagram            \n>\n> A post shared by Luba Mushtuk (@lubamushtuk)\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nHer optimistic perspective resonated with fans, with one replying: \"What a lovely outlook to have xxx,\" while another simply stated: \"I love that!\"\n\nMr Marquez has not yet publicly confirmed his own departure from the programme, after not being assigned a partner for the 2025 series.\n\nHis most recent pairing was with Dr Punam Krishnan during the 2024 series and he has previously partnered celebrities including Maisie Smith, Alexandra Burke and Helen Skelton.\n\nMr Marquez first joined Strictly a decade ago when he was paired with EastEnders actress Tameka Empson in 2016.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nThe BBC's decision to reshape its professional dancer roster stems from a desire to attract younger audiences and capitalise on social media engagement.\n\nProducers are reportedly seeking more \"TikTok-friendly\" performers to lead the programme, though this has not been officially confirmed by the broadcaster.\n\nA source explained the thinking to The Sun: \"The way producers look at it is a bit like running a football team.\n\n“Even after Man City win the league, they still tweak the squad and bring in fresh blood to stay at the top of their game.\"\n\n### LATEST DEVELOPMENTS\n\n\n\n\n  * BBC Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk becomes latest star axed from series as she issues heartfelt statement\n  * JK Rowling issues verdict on Harry Potter adaptation trailer despite backlash from fans\n  * ITV Coronation Street legend prompts return hopes after reuniting with co-stars\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nThe emphasis on digital appeal is also reflected in contestant selection, with more social media-savvy celebrities being approached, such as last year's runner-up George Clarke.\n\nThe shake-up follows the earlier announcement that presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman would not be returning for the upcoming series.\n\n**Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter**",
  "title": "Gemma Atkinson wades in on BBC Strictly axing as husband Gorka Marquez’s future under threat"
}