Gemma Atkinson wants Gorka to have 'chemistry' with partners - despite 'Strictly curse’
19.08.2023 - 19:53
/ ok.co.uk
While Gemma Atkinson is at home in Manchester with her newborn son Thiago and four-year-old daughter Mia this September, her partner Gorka Márquez will be in London teaching a top celebrity to tango on Strictly Come Dancing . However, the couple isn't worried that the show's legendary curse will tear their perfect family apart. The actress, 38, met Gorka on the show when she was partnered with his pal Aljaž Škorjanec, and soon fell in love.
The show has made many successful couples like Kevin Clifton and Stacey Dooley, but it has also seen couples split too. However, Gorka insists romances and break ups happen in all industries - not just ballroom dancing. “It’s a myth,” says Gorka.
“That can happen everywhere in any job.” Gemma is similarly relaxed and in fact will be encouraging Gorka to find some chemistry with his dance partner. She explains, “I remember when I had to dance the rumba with Aljaž. Everyone said, ‘You have to look into his eyes and get close,’ and I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is awful!’.
But the dance looked rubbish because I didn’t do it. So then I remember saying to Helen [Skelton], ‘You’ve got to be passionate with Gorka, that’s part of the dance.’ I’m always rooting for them to have chemistry!” She adds, “I think Gorka and I are very lucky in that we’re both understanding of each other’s jobs. We’re chilled.” Gemma is currently trying to persuade her former Emmerdale co-star Amy Walsh to sign up for the dancing competition.
She’s certainly got the pedigree – Amy’s sister and Girls Aloud singer Kimberley was a finalist back in 2012. “I’m desperate for Amy Walsh to do the show,” says Gemma. “Gorka knows Amy and she loves a boogie.