Gemma Atkinson admits latest Gorka Marquez countdown after 'fighting tears' over update

Gemma Atkinson has revealed she's on another countdown to being reunited with Gorka Marquez before sharing an emotional update that left her 'fighting tears' of the wholesome kind.

While they're no strangers to their work taking them in different directions over the years, the pair recently had to spend a chunk of time in different parts of the country as dancer Gorka competed in Strictly Come Dancing's 2024 series with Morning Live star Dr Punam Krishan.

Punam was based in Glasgow being Gorka temporarily moved to Scotland while they competed in the hit dance show, while also travelling to London each weekend for the BBC One dance contest's live programme each week.

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But following Strictly's Halloween special at the end of October, Gorka and Dr Punam were eliminated from the competition, meaning the former's time in Scotland came to an end and he was able to return to Greater Manchester to be back with his family.

However, it appears Gorka has been on the move again as it was recently confirmed he'd be taking part in Strictly's Christmas special after fellow pro dancer Carlos Gu had to pull out. He was due to perform in the festive episode alongside Vogue Williams but Gorka has been drafted in because Carlos suffered an ankle injury.

A Strictly Come Dancing spokesperson said: "Unfortunately, professional dancer, Carlos Gu, has sustained an ankle injury so is unable to participate in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special alongside contestant Vogue Williams. Fellow professional dancer, Gorka Márquez will be stepping in for him and dancing with Vogue. We all wish him a speedy recovery."

On Tuesday (December 3), Gemma took to social media with a little insight into how her and Gorka's eldest child, daughter Mia, seemingly deals with her 'Papa' being away as she filmed her TV screen showing old videos of her with Gorka as a baby.

Alongside the video on her Instagram Story, Gemma wrote: "Mia's watching old videos [face holding back tears emoji]. She always does when Gorka is away. I love that we always have these to look back on [red heart emoji] @gorka_marquez." She added: "I wish I had more videos with my dad but he was always the one taking the pics. He loved photography."

It comes after she took to social media over the weekend with a video in which she could be seen putting herself through her paces in her home gym. The Bury-born star captioned the post to her two million followers: "Snippets. Mia & Tio were at my sisters this weekend so I got to train mid morning.

"Just two more weeks of 4.30 alarms and 5am sessions then Gorkas back for a while so a new routine will start from then. It isn’t always easy as everyone knows. But chipping away when you can with what you have all makes a difference. Mentally especially. So, find a routine and make it work for you."

And her friends and followers were quick to respond. Strictly Come Dancing star Sarah Hadland said: "Inspiration." @the_book_of_jo commented "Looking strong! Absolute boss!" @1970boyes replied: "You look fitter and stronger than ever." @xxdaniellebrannanxx added: "Such an inspiration."