Strictly’s Gorka Marquez speaks out for first time after horrific attack: ‘It was a bad experience’

Gorka Marquez has spoken out after being attacked in Blackpool, saying that it was a ‘bad experience’ but reassuring fans that he’s on the mend.

The Strictly Come Dancing professional, who had two teeth knocked out during an assault by a group of youths on Saturday night, has insisted that he is now ‘feeling better’ and will be back on the show this weekend.

Speaking out on social media for the first time, Marquez wrote on Twitter: “Thanks for all your kind messages and support about Blackpool.

“It was a bad experience but I’m feeling better and just want to look forward to the show on Saturday!”

EastEnders actress Tameka Empson, who danced with Marquez on this year’s show, wrote:

“Tweeple, thank you for letting me know about @gorkamarquez1 over the weekend. I spoke to him & he is fine. He's still Gorka the Corker!!”

The dancer is due to undergo dental surgery after he was attacked by the group while walking to a nightclub with fellow dancers Aljaz Skorjanec and Neil Jones.

A friend told The Sun: “Gorka’s an incredibly passive guy, he wouldn’t hurt a fly. He’s so upbeat that he won’t let an unprovoked attack from a yob ruin his first Strictly in Blackpool.”

Strictly bosses confirmed he will be returning at the weekend with a spokesperson saying:

“Gorka was sadly the victim of an unprovoked incident in Blackpool on Saturday night but he will be back in training this week and is looking forward to the group routine next weekend.”