Jowita Przystal issues statement after BBC Strictly exit with tribute to ‘special’ Pete Wicks amid romance rumours
BBC Strictly pro Jowita Przystal, 30, has issues a glowing statement in praise of her celeb dance partner Pete Wicks, 36, after they were eliminated in this weekend’s semi-final.
The Polish dancer and TOWIE star exceeded many viewers’ expectations in their quest to lift the coveted Glitterball Trophy which has now drawn to a close.
In their final week, the pair danced an Argentine Tango to Bittersweet Symphony by The Verve, and a Foxtrot to Beyond The Sea by Bobby Darin.
With a combined score of 65, their efforts saw them placed at the bottom of the semi-final leaderboard – despite claims by some fans of “favouritism” for Wicks from head judge Shirley Ballas.
On Sunday’s results show, they faced their first ever dance-off of the series against Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec – who were unanimously chosen to progress to the final by the judges.
After their elimination, Przystal took to Instagram to share her feelings and was full of admiration for Wicks as she began: “This past 13 weeks were so special to me.”
Gushing with praise for Wicks, she wrote: “Your hard work, commitment and passion is absolutely remarkable.”
In the lengthy tribute, Przystal recalled memories and repeatedly praised the TOWIE star’s progression as a dancer and his performances.
She told Wicks, who had not had any dance training before appearing on the show, that he was “exactly what Strictly Come Dancing is about”.
“I was teaching you how to dance… but you taught me so much more,” the 30-year-old wrote.
Referencing the claim by some fans that Wicks was not a good enough dancer, Przystal added: “And yes you can dance Pete!”
She concluded her tribute to her dance partner: “I hope that last dance on the strictly floor wasn’t our last. And remember your little dancing gnome will always be your number 1 fan. You are enough.”
“The show ends…but that doesn’t mean we never dance again,” Wicks responded to the post with a heart emoji.
This latest exchange comes as Przystal and Wicks continue to be embroiled in romance rumours.
Fans have long speculated about a relationship, noticing their sizzling chemistry during dances.
However, in his own post following their exit from Strictly, Wicks appeared to dampen these rumours as he said his dance partner had “gained a friend for life” and added: “You will always be my dancing gnome.”
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Wicks is also rumoured to be in a relationship with former Love Island star Maura Higgins, who was sixth to leave the jungle on this year’s ITV I’m a Celebrity.
Ahead of the Strictly semi-finals, Higgins cheered Wicks on via her Instagram page, penning: “Go on @pete_Wicks01!! Let’s get them to the final.”
Outside of praise for her dance partner, Przystal was also glowing about the voting public. “Thank you for all your votes, for your support for your love and kindness… thank you for being on this mad journey with us,” she wrote.
The Polish dancer concluded: “And congratulations to all the finalists! Go and smash it guys you are all amazing.” (sic)
Ghouri, JLS star JB Gill, comedian Chris McCausland and Miranda’s Sarah Hadland will face off in the hotly-anticipated Strictly finale next weekend.