BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystal appear to kiss in new backstage photos

Strictly Come Dancing stars Pete Wicks and Jowita Przysta have been at the centre of romance rumours for weeks, with the pair's growing bond reportedly becoming an 'open secret'

Following weeks of speculation, Strictly Come Dancing's Pete Wicks has been photographed seemingly sharing a romantic kiss with his professional dance partner, Jowita Przysta. The pair, who have been impressing audiences with their undeniable chemistry during rehearsals, were caught getting extremely close while practising their upcoming routine for this Saturday's show, with one moment appearing to show them sharing a kiss.

Last month, the former TOWIE star, 36, and his dance partner Jowita, 30, stunned viewers as their sizzling routine ended in a near kiss. However new photos have been published by The Mail on Sunday appearing to show them sharing an intimate moment behind-the-scenes during rehearsals.

The photos show Pete and Jowita looking incredibly close, with the reality TV favourite appearing to plant a kiss on Jowita's lips while she wraps her arms around his neck in a passionate hug. A source told The Mail on Sunday that Pete had 'fallen head over heels for Jowita'.

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They added: "The feeling is mutual from her side and things have definitely progressed between them. They are all over one another behind the scenes, in a way that a loved-up couple would be," reports The Mirror.

The buzz around the duo intensified after Sam Thompson, Pete's best friend, revealed: "Pete's in love." The couple stirred more excitement when they shared their plans on Loose Women for getting matching tattoos of the Glitterball Trophy if they win.

Known for his romantic escapades, Pete has been linked to famous faces including Love Island's Maura Higgins and EastEnders actress Danielle Harold. It is not known if he is currently dating anyone.

Meanwhile, Jowita, following her split from long-term partner Michael Danilczuk, has been at the centre of rumours of a brief three-month romance with 34 year old Giovanni Pernice, which was said to have ended in 2023. She has also been linked to fellow dancer Arduino Bertoncello.