Love has blossomed behind-the-scenes of Strictly Come Dancing between two professionals - with one that had been linked to her star partner.
Throughout the 2024 season the long-running BBC dance show there has been speculation that romance could have sparked between pro dancer Jowita Przystał, 30, and former The Only Way Is Essex star Pete Wicks, 36. There had even been rumours of a love triangle between the pair as Pete had also been linked to Love Island beauty Maura Higgins, 34.
But it appears this was a false flag - and the true romance behind-the-scenes of Strictly this year was between Jowita and fellow professional dancer Vito Coppola, 32. The Italian dance hunk was paired with Miranda actress Sarah Hadland, 53, during his time on the show - and they made it all the way to the final to land in second place.
But a report has suggested that Jowita and Coppola had eyes for each other while their toes were brushing the ballroom floor with their celebrity partners. It has also been teased that other relationships have developed behind-the-scenes of the show that have not yet been made public.
Addressing the blossoming relationship between Vito and Jowita - who previously dated former Strictly pro Giovanni Pernice, 34 - a source told The Sun: "There have been several flings going on under the radar this year but people are talking behind the scenes.
"The chemistry on set is palpable. But Vito is very respectful of Jowita and has been trying to woo her all series. Now that her partner Pete Wicks is no longer around to distract her, Vito can finally take centre stage."
The Mirror has contacted representatives of Jowita and Vito for comment - while a spokesperson for the BBC declined to comment on the reported romance. Saturday night saw comedian Chris McCausland, 47, and his dance partner Dianne Buswell, 35, win the 2024 season of the show - and the other contestants, dancers and judges have lavished them with praise.
In a message of support to the couple, Jowita wrote on Instagram on Sunday: "They did it... massive congratulations to @chrismccauslandcomedy and @diannebuswell our Strictly 2024 Champions. You inspired so many people, you shown us that anything is possible... thank you for all those beautiful moments you both created on that dance floor."
Following a difficult year for Strictly - which saw accusations of abuse behind-the-scenes and lower than usual ratings - Jowita went on to defend the show and it's place in her heart. She wrote: "Congratulations to all finalists, you should be so proud of yourselves. It was a pure joy watching you all dance!"
She added: "Last night was very emotional… and just reassured me why I do what I do. @bbcstrictly creates magic, dancing connect people and I feel grateful I can be part of it."
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