Jowita Przystal and Pete Wicks share three kisses at O2 Arena, fueling romance speculation

Jowita Przystal and Pete Wicks sparked renewed romance speculation after delivering a high-energy moment during a live show at London's O2 Arena last Friday. At a Staying Relevant podcast appearance, the Strictly Come Dancing pro and the former The Only Way Is Essex star danced in close proximity as Kaleo's Way Down We Go thumped through the arena, and they shared three intimate kisses that drew cheers from the crowd. Observers described the moment as electric and suggested it fit fans’ long-running hope that the pair could be more than colleagues offstage, given the chemistry they displayed during last year’s Strictly Come Dancing run.

Months earlier, their bond had already shown signs at the National Television Awards at the same venue. In a corridor near the VIP area, Wicks leaned in toward Przystal and rested a hand on her shoulder while they spoke in private, a sequence that underscored a level of closeness beyond standard professional rapport. The moment, captured by witnesses, fed speculation that their connection had evolved since their first public display.

Since last year’s Strictly run, Wicks publicly dated Maura Higgins, a relationship that ended amid public disputes. Friends close to the pair say Jowita has become a constant presence in Wicks’s life since last year’s Strictly run and has helped him through tough moments following the breakup. Some who know the couple believe the connection has become romantic, even as representatives have downplayed any sustained romance.

Complicating the timeline, Wicks was photographed kissing a mystery blonde at a Mayfair restaurant days before the O2 show. The former reality TV participant has a history of dating fellow reality stars, and in his memoir he discusses a self-described commitment-phobe side, noting that past experiences shaped by abandonment fears influence his approach to relationships. People close to him say he does not rush into relationships and tends not to hurt those he cares about with indecision.

On screen, Przystal continues to perform on Strictly Come Dancing with Ross King, a 63-year-old BBC entertainment and morning television figure who serves as her partner this season. Viewers will watch to see whether the onstage chemistry translates into the dance floor in the weeks ahead. After the O2 show, Przystal posted to Instagram that she was buzzing and thanked fans and Wicks for giving her what she described as a dream night. The post amplified the growing narrative that the pair share a special connection that extends beyond the dance floor.

Friends of the pair describe them as a great match, noting they are both free spirits who enjoy having fun together and bring out each other’s smiles. While the public cadence of their evolving relationship remains to be seen, those close to them say the chemistry is real and ongoing. With the O2 moment fueling renewed attention, fans and commentators alike will be watching closely in the weeks ahead for any official confirmation or further demonstrations of affection between Przystal and Wicks.