Strictly Come Dancing's Pete Wicks talks 'fairy tale' romance amid major love life change

Strictly Come Dancing star Pete Wicks has been open about his love life and the reasons behind his single status. Despite being popular with the ladies, Pete admits that he hasn't managed to maintain a relationship for more than 18 months, but hopes to be married one day.

In his book Never Enough, the 36-year-old reveals that while he understands there's no such thing as "a perfect relationship", he still yearns for "a fairy tale". However, he confesses to self-sabotaging in his love life, adding: "I push people away when I notice the slightest signs that we're not suited or it might not work."

The reality star also admits that despite understanding his situation, he struggles to apply these lessons in real life. Recognising that his preference for "a specific type" of woman wasn't helping, he's now become "more open-minded" about potential future partners.

He said: "I realised that only going after a certain 'type' of person was cutting me off from people I'd connect better with.

"It’s so limiting, and often it’s based on an idea of what we think we should find attractive, rather than qualities we actually find attractive."

While he acknowledges that physical attraction is important, he now values "a fun personality and good morals" above all else. The reality star is frequently linked to women in the public eye, most recently Love Island star Maura Higgins and his Strictly Come Dancing partner Jowita Przystał.

Last week, Pete finally spoke out about the persistent rumours and denied that he is dating either of the stars. He addressed the claims ahead of reportedly being spotted kissing Maura at the Pride of Britain afterparty in London's Grosvenor House Hotel's Red Bar earlier this week.

Meanwhile, a TikTok video featuring a dance and a staged kiss between the two has sparked further speculation, though neither have confirmed a relationship. Pete has also refuted suggestions that there's anything more than friendship with Jowita, but admitted that they share "good chemistry" on the dance floor.