Gorka Marquez in tears as he shares sad family news months after BBC Strictly star’s heartbreaking pet loss
Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez has shared an emotional update about his family’s new puppy Benji, who required emergency surgery just weeks after joining their household.
The 34-year-old dancer posted a tearful selfie on Instagram on Wednesday evening, revealing his heartbreak at having to leave the goldendoodle at the veterinary clinic.
“Many of you messaged asking how is Benji doing. Unfortunately he didn’t get better so this AM I had to take him back to the vets and leave him there to do scans and end up having surgery,” Marquez wrote on his Instagram Story.
The Spanish dancer followed up with a photograph showing tears streaming down his face, adding: “It breaks my heart seeing him like that and to leave him there.”
The update comes after a particularly difficult period for Marquez and his fiancée, radio presenter Gemma Atkinson.
The couple lost their beloved dog Norman in 2024, followed by the death of their other dog Ollie just six months later.
Benji joined the family last month, bringing new joy to the household that includes the couple’s two children, Mia and Thiago, as well as their remaining dog Rocco.
Marquez announced the goldendoodle’s arrival in May, posting: “Another set of paws New memories to make. So far, today has been the best day of 2025… Welcome to the family Benji Marquez.”
Atkinson had previously shared footage of Benji meeting Rocco, writing that “within a few minutes and after seeing me with Rocco, he knew he was safe and the play time began.”
The health concerns began on Monday when Atkinson revealed on Instagram that she had been up throughout the night with Benji being sick.
She expressed worry that the puppy may have inhaled pieces of a plastic brush he had been caught with.
Initially, the vet wasn’t concerned but advised bringing Benji back if he hadn’t eaten within 24 hours.
When the puppy’s condition failed to improve, Atkinson, who was working in London, instructed Marquez to return to the veterinary clinic.
Despite the distressing circumstances, Marquez provided a reassuring update: “He is doing well now and this evening he will be back home with us.”
The dancer attempted to lift his spirits by spending time with his son, posting: “At least this little man made me smile all morning.”
The professional dancer, who has been a fixture on Strictly Come Dancing since 2016, recently confirmed his participation in the show’s upcoming series.
“Excited to be back for my 10th Series! Let the countdown begin,” he announced on social media.
Marquez met Atkinson when she competed on Strictly in 2017, with the pair becoming an official couple the following year.
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The 34-year-old recently completed a UK tour with fellow professional Karen Hauer after finishing sixth in the latest series partnering Dr Punam Krishan.
Away from the dancefloor, Marquez participated in this year’s Soccer Aid charity match at Old Trafford, helping World XI defeat England whilst raising £15 million for UNICEF.