Who Are This Year's Strictly Pros After Gorka Márquez's Heartbreaking Exit?

Exciting Changes in the Strictly Come Dancing Lineup for Autumn 2025
The upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing promises to be an exhilarating affair as new professional dancers Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon join the ensemble. With their impressive backgrounds and passion for dance, they are set to bring fresh energy and excitement to the beloved competition. As the show gears up for its autumn return, fans are eagerly anticipating how these new talents will blend with the existing cast.
Warr, a 25-year-old sensation, captured the audience's heart by winning the US dance series So You Think You Can Dance in 2022. Her achievement as the first female ballroom and Latin dancer to be crowned America’s Favourite Dancer adds to her credentials. This isn't her debut in the world of Strictly; she has graced the US version of the show as a guest professional dancer and has also showcased her skills on platforms like Dancing With The Stars, America’s Got Talent, and World of Dance.
Expressing her excitement about joining the Strictly family, Warr stated, “I have admired Strictly for years. Joining this incredible family is such an honour. I can’t wait to step into the ballroom, pour my heart into every moment, and share my love of dance with the UK.” Her enthusiasm reflects her commitment to delivering captivating performances that resonate with the audience.
On the other hand, Julian Caillon brings a wealth of experience from the Australian dance scene. Having appeared on three seasons of Australia’s Dancing With The Stars, he is no stranger to high-pressure performances. Additionally, he showcased his talent on So You Think You Can Dance Australia. Beyond his dance expertise, Caillon has worked as a personal trainer and exercise physiologist, enriching his understanding of movement and physical fitness.
Caillon expressed his enthusiasm about joining the show, calling it “a dream come true.” He shared, “I’ve watched it for years, especially cheering on all the amazing dancers I know and work with who’ve been part of it. I can’t wait to get stuck in, have some fun, and be part of something special!” His excitement is palpable, and viewers can expect an engaging presence from him on the dance floor.
Marquez's Temporary Absence
In a surprising turn of events, the beloved dancer Marquez will not be able to compete in the upcoming season, despite being announced as part of the official lineup earlier. The 34-year-old has commitments to the Spanish version of the competition, Bailando Con Las Estrellas, which will take him away from the UK for up to four weeks. Although he will miss out on competing with a partner, Marquez will still participate in group routines during the first few episodes before heading to Spain.
Marquez took to social media to share his thoughts, stating, “Due to the filming dates, this means that I won’t be competing with a partner this year in Strictly, but I will be a part of lots of the group numbers and will be back for final weeks of the show to support the rest of my fellow pros and their celebrities in what is going to be an AMAZING SERIES.” His continued involvement in the group performances will surely be a treat for fans, maintaining his connection to the show.
Official Statements from the Producers
Sarah James, the executive producer at BBC Studios, expressed her excitement about the new additions to the Strictly family. “We’ve been big fans of Alexis and Julian for some time, so it’s with great excitement that we now welcome them both to the Strictly family. They’re two incredible dancers with bright futures ahead of them, and we know viewers are going to love getting to know them both.” This endorsement from the producers signals a positive shift in the show's dynamics with the introduction of fresh talent.
Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment, added her thoughts on the new cast members. “Alexis and Julian are the perfect additions to Strictly, and we can’t wait for you to see them light up the ballroom this autumn,” she stated. “With our fantastic professional dancers plus everything else we love about Strictly, the new series promises to be bigger, better, and even more glitter-packed than ever before.” This enthusiasm from the production team sets high expectations for the upcoming season.
What to Expect in the New Season
The new season of Strictly Come Dancing is not just about the addition of new dancers; it is also an opportunity for the show to revitalize itself with innovative performances and unforgettable moments. With the combination of seasoned professionals and fresh talent, viewers can anticipate a blend of styles, creativity, and thrilling choreography.
- Dynamic Performances: With Alexis and Julian on board, expect vibrant performances that showcase a variety of dance styles, including ballroom, Latin, and contemporary.
- Engaged Storytelling: Each dance will likely tell a story, resonating with the audience on a deeper emotional level.
- Interactive Audience Experience: The show continues to evolve, potentially incorporating more viewer interaction and engagement through voting and social media platforms.
As the show prepares to air in September, fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and get ready for a season filled with spectacular performances, emotional moments, and the magical atmosphere that Strictly is known for.
FAQs about the Upcoming Season of Strictly Come Dancing
Who are the new professional dancers joining Strictly Come Dancing?
The new professional dancers joining Strictly Come Dancing this season are Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon.
What previous shows have Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon been a part of?
Alexis Warr is known for winning So You Think You Can Dance in 2022 and has appeared on the US version of Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing With The Stars, and America’s Got Talent. Julian Caillon has participated in Australia’s Dancing With The Stars and So You Think You Can Dance Australia.
Will Marquez be competing this season?
No, Marquez will not be competing this season as he is committed to the Spanish version of the competition, Bailando Con Las Estrellas. However, he will still participate in group routines during the initial episodes.
When does the new season of Strictly Come Dancing premiere?
The new season of Strictly Come Dancing is set to premiere in September.
What can viewers expect from the new season?
Viewers can expect dynamic performances, engaged storytelling, and an interactive audience experience as the show introduces new professional dancers and innovations.
This autumn, as Strictly Come Dancing returns to our screens, the anticipation is palpable. With the introduction of Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon, fans can expect a season filled with breathtaking performances and captivating moments. What are you most looking forward to in the new season? 🎉 #StrictlyComeDancing #Dance #Entertainment
```Published: 2025-08-08 11:30:25 | Category: Entertainment