BBC Strictly Come Dancing star says 'sorry' over public comment about his partner
A BBC Strictly Come Dancing star has issued a grovelling apology after an offensive comment about his real-life partner. Gorka Marquez, who is a pro on the BBC show, appeared on Strictly Come Dancing spin off It Takes Two on Friday night.
Gorka was interviewed about his current celebrity partner, Dr Punam Krishan. Discussing Gorka's two children, Thiago and Mia, who he shares with Gemma Atkinson, host Fleur East commented: "Thiago is old enough to watch you on TV."
Gorka said: "You know what, he's got the moves and this might sound not good enough for Mia but I think he might have more rhythm than Mia. I think the boys in the family have the moves, not the girls, Sorry Gemma."
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Gorka said: "That's okay, I'm going to Glasgow," when it was suggested Gemma wouldn't be happy with the remark. Following their first performance, Gorka has already been quick to praise his new dance partner. Alongside a picture of them both in action in the ballroom, the 34-year-old wrote on his Instagram Story: "Our first dance on the @bbcstrictly floor and I couldn't be more proud of @drpunamkrishan.
"Totally out of her comfort zone doing something that is miles away [from] what her job is and went out and smashed it." He added: "Can't wait to get started with our second dance." Dr Punam returned to Morning Live where she reflected on her performance.
Speaking on the BBC One show on Tuesday (September 24), she said: "It still doesn't feel real, I'm watching that just there going: 'That's me?'" She then revealed what went slightly wrong at the end of their routine with Gorka, saying: "I had two goals, which were do not fall on your bum and do not forget the routine. So, at the very end, Poor Gorka had his hands up there for a high ten and I just went onto the floor, like: 'I nailed it!'"