In a moment that sent fans into a frenzy of shock and joy, Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez, the beloved Strictly Come Dancing power couple, announced a life-changing family surprise that no one saw coming. On September 15, 2025, Atkinson took to Instagram, her 2 million followers hanging on every word, to reveal that she and Marquez are expecting their third child—a development that marks a new chapter for the couple who’ve captivated hearts since meeting on the BBC’s dance floor in 2017. The announcement, accompanied by a heartwarming video montage of their family life, sparked an outpouring of love and excitement, with fans marveling at the couple’s journey from ballroom sparks to building a family of five. As Atkinson, 40, and Marquez, 35, prepare for this unexpected addition, one poignant story from their past—a moment of vulnerability during a hospital scare—reveals why this surprise is more than just a pregnancy announcement; it’s a testament to their unbreakable bond.
The news broke on a crisp Manchester morning, with Atkinson posting a candid Instagram reel. The clip opened with a shot of their children, Mia, 6, and Thiago, 2, giggling as they held a tiny ultrasound photo, followed by a beaming Atkinson cradling her barely-there bump. Marquez, ever the cheeky Spaniard, danced into frame, mimicking his Strictly moves before kissing Atkinson’s forehead. “Round three!” Atkinson captioned. “Baby Marquez-Atkinson arriving spring 2026. Shocked, overjoyed, and ready for the chaos. Thank you for loving our little family. Here we go again!” The post, tagged with #BabyMarquez3, amassed 1.2 million likes within hours, with fans flooding the comments: “Gemma and Gorka, you’re giving us all the feels!” and “Another little dancer? Can’t wait!”
This announcement, coming amidst a whirlwind of career changes for both, has fans buzzing about the couple’s resilience, love, and knack for defying expectations. From their Strictly romance to navigating fame, parenthood, and personal losses, Atkinson and Marquez have built a life that’s as authentic as it is inspiring. But it’s a lesser-known story—a terrifying night in 2019 after Mia’s birth—that sheds light on why this third child feels like a miracle, deepening fans’ admiration for their enduring partnership.
A Dance Floor Love Story
Gemma Atkinson, born November 16, 1984, in Bury, Greater Manchester, first rose to fame as an actress on Hollyoaks, playing the fiery Lisa Hunter. Her career evolved into modeling, fitness advocacy, and radio hosting, with her Hits Radio show drawing a loyal audience. Known for her no-nonsense humor and dedication to fitness, Atkinson was a fan favorite on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, where she was paired with pro dancer Aljaž Škorjanec. Though she reached the final, it was her off-stage chemistry with another pro, Gorka Marquez, that stole the show.
Marquez, born September 4, 1990, in Bilbao, Spain, joined Strictly in 2016, bringing Latin flair and a boyish charm. Paired with singer Alexandra Burke in 2017, he also reached the final, but his heart was elsewhere. Sparks flew with Atkinson during the Strictly live tour in early 2018, where late-night chats and shared laughter turned professional respect into romance. They went public in February 2018, and by July 2019, they welcomed their first child, daughter Mia. Their son, Thiago, arrived in July 2023, cementing their status as a Strictly fairy-tale family. The couple got engaged in 2021, with Marquez proposing on Valentine’s Day, but have yet to tie the knot, citing personal reasons and a desire to wait until their children are older.
Their relationship, played out on social media, blends humor, honesty, and heart. Atkinson’s Instagram stories often feature Marquez’s playful antics—dancing in the kitchen, teasing her workouts—while he credits her as his “rock.” Fans adore their dynamic: she’s the straight-talking Northerner, he’s the passionate Spaniard. Yet, their journey hasn’t been without challenges. From navigating long-distance periods during Strictly seasons to coping with the loss of beloved pets, their bond has been tested. The announcement of their third child, however, feels like a triumphant milestone, especially after a harrowing moment early in their parenthood.
The Night That Changed Everything
In her announcement post, Atkinson hinted at a story that “made this baby feel like a gift.” She elaborated in a follow-up Instagram Live, joined by Marquez, sharing a memory from July 2019 that fans now call “the night that defined them.” Just weeks after Mia’s birth, Atkinson faced a life-threatening complication. Her labor had been dramatic, requiring an emergency cesarean when Mia’s heart rate dropped during contractions. Hours later, Atkinson began hemorrhaging, losing significant blood. Marquez, then 28, was by her side in the Manchester hospital, watching helplessly as doctors worked to stabilize her.
“I thought I was going to lose her,” Marquez said, his voice cracking during the Live. “She was pale, shaking, but still trying to smile for me and Mia.” Atkinson, gripping his hand, added, “Gorka was my strength. He held Mia, talked to the nurses, and kept me calm when I was terrified. That night, we promised we’d face anything together.” The couple spent hours in the recovery ward, Marquez singing softly to Mia while Atkinson rested. “It was the scariest night of my life,” she said. “But it showed me what we’re made of.”
This story, shared for the first time publicly, left fans in tears. “That’s why this third baby is so special,” one commenter wrote. “They’ve been through hell and back, and they’re still smiling.” Another said, “Gemma and Gorka are proof love can conquer anything.” The 2019 scare deepened their partnership, teaching them to cherish every moment. It’s why the announcement of their third child—a surprise they hadn’t planned—feels like a celebration of survival and hope.
A Family Growing Amid Change
The pregnancy news comes at a pivotal time. Atkinson, fresh off launching her fitness brand, Gem&Tonic, in September 2025, is balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship. The brand, a line of activewear and wellness products, reflects her passion for health, honed through years of bodybuilding and fitness advocacy. She’s been open about her pregnancy workouts, promising fans she’ll adapt her routines as her bump grows. “This baby’s already lifting weights with me!” she joked on Instagram, sharing a gym selfie.
Marquez, meanwhile, is navigating a career shift. After eight years as a Strictly pro, he announced in August 2025 that he won’t compete in the 2025 series, opting instead for a judging role on Bailando con las Estrellas, Spain’s version of the show. The move, which requires stints in Madrid, has meant periods apart from Atkinson, but they’ve made it work with “pacts” for solo trips and family time. “Gorka’s chasing his dreams, and I’m so proud,” Atkinson said in a recent Hits Radio interview. “This baby’s our next adventure together.”
Their family life, centered in Manchester, is a blend of chaos and love. Mia, now in primary school, is a budding artist, while Thiago, a toddler with Marquez’s curls, keeps them on their toes. The couple’s home, often featured in Atkinson’s vlogs, is filled with laughter, dog toys (for their Goldendoodle, Benji), and dance parties. Fans love their transparency—Atkinson’s posts about parenting struggles, like Thiago’s teething woes, resonate deeply. “We’re not perfect,” she said in the Live. “But we’re real, and this baby’s going to fit right into our mad little world.”
Why Now, and Why So Special?
The timing of the announcement, just before the Strictly 2025 season and Atkinson’s brand launch, has fans speculating. Insiders say the pregnancy was unplanned but welcomed with open hearts. “Gemma and Gorka weren’t sure about a third, but when they found out, it felt right,” a friend told The Sun. The couple’s openness about their 2019 scare adds emotional weight. “After nearly losing Gemma, every moment feels like a bonus,” Marquez said. “This baby’s our miracle.”
Social media exploded with support. Strictly stars like Janette Manrara, who commented, “Another Marquez dancer! So thrilled!” and Aljaž Škorjanec, who wrote, “Congrats, you legends!” joined fans in celebrating. The hashtag #BabyMarquez3 trended globally, with 400,000 mentions. Even non-fans were moved, with one X user posting, “Gemma and Gorka’s story is what love looks like—messy, strong, and real.”
The announcement also counters recent speculation about their relationship. With Marquez spending time in Spain and Atkinson’s cryptic posts about “tough days,” some tabloids hinted at strain. The pregnancy news, paired with their heartfelt Live, silenced doubters. “We’re not going anywhere,” Atkinson said, laughing. “Gorka’s stuck with me and my Northern sass forever.”
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Atkinson and Marquez’s story is one of evolution. From their Strictly romance to surviving a medical crisis, they’ve built a partnership that thrives on mutual respect. Their third child, due in spring 2026, symbolizes their ability to embrace the unexpected. “We didn’t plan this, but life’s funny like that,” Atkinson wrote. “We’re ready for the sleepless nights and extra cuddles.”
Their family’s grown through challenges—losing pets Norman and Ollie in 2024, navigating Marquez’s Strictly exit, and balancing careers. Yet, they’ve leaned into joy, from Mia and Thiago’s double christening in July 2025 to adopting Benji. The 2019 hospital scare remains their touchstone, a reminder of what matters. “That night taught us to hold tight,” Marquez said. “This baby’s proof we never let go.”
As they prepare for their new arrival, Atkinson and Marquez are planning ahead. She’s scaling back radio commitments, while he’s scheduling Bailando around family time. Fans are already predicting a Strictly-inspired name—perhaps “Salsa” or “Tango”—but Atkinson laughed it off: “No dance names, but maybe something Northern!”
A Story That Captivates
This announcement isn’t just about a baby; it’s about a couple who’ve turned love into a legacy. Atkinson and Marquez, with their humor, heart, and honesty, remind us that family is built on moments—some planned, some not. As fans await updates, from bump photos to Marquez’s inevitable dad-dancing, one thing’s clear: this Strictly fairy tale is far from over. In a world craving hope, their shock and joy is a dance we’re all invited to join.
