Gorka Marquez playfully threatened to part ways with Gemma Atkinson if she decided to introduce a new member into their family unit. The professional dancer and ex-soap star Gemma crossed paths during their participation in Strictly Come Dancing back in 2007.
The pair, parents to two children, recently embraced the arrival of Benji, a goldendoodle, into their home following the passing of Gemma’s previous dogs, Norman and Ollie, last year.
During their Lost in Translation podcast, Gorka amusingly disclosed that Benji had been disrupting his sleep by leaping onto the bed at night, causing discomfort. This led Gorka to request Gemma to have Benji sleep downstairs or off the bed.
In response, Gemma expressed her desire to bring another dog into the household and suggested Gorka could opt to sleep in a different room. Gorka, who had just returned from a tour with fellow Strictly professional Karen Hauer, detailed his sleep struggles due to Benji’s nocturnal antics.
Gemma humorously remarked that it’s a matter of “love me, love my dog,” and mentioned that some couples choose to sleep separately without diminishing their affection for each other.
Despite sharing children Mia and Thiago with Gemma, Gorka recounted a nighttime incident where he found Benji occupying his spot while checking on their son. Gemma described Benji as a devoted companion and hinted at more additions to come.
In a light-hearted exchange, Gorka teased about leaving if more dogs were added, to which Gemma playfully responded that she would gladly have four dogs if possible.
While expressing his fondness for the dog, Gorka emphasized the need for Benji to sleep elsewhere, stating his preference for a pet that abides by certain boundaries.
On the other hand, Gemma viewed Benji as a cherished companion and granted him the freedom to act as he pleases, signifying a close bond between them.
Gemma, a former model, partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec during her stint on Strictly in 2017, finishing as runner-up alongside Alexandra Burke, Gorka, Debbie McGee, and Giovanni Pernice, with Joe McFadden and Katya Jones emerging as the series winners.
Don’t miss the return of Strictly Come Dancing airing at 6.25 pm on BBC One tonight.