Strictly Come Dancing has found itself dealing with more drama as professional dancers Carlos Gu, aged 33, and Nancy Xu, aged 34, are reportedly at odds.
Despite their long-standing friendship since their childhood days in China, the pair have seemingly hit a sour note, both unfollowing each other on social media platforms.
This apparent rift is allegedly because Carlos did not receive a celebrity partner for this year’s competition, whereas Nancy is dancing with Shayne Ward.
Previously, the duo shared a warm camaraderie, with Carlos calling Nancy his “favourite sister” and Nancy referring to him as her “baby brother.”
As of late, however, Carlos reportedly feels neglected as Nancy dedicates herself to her ambition of claiming the Glitterball trophy, reports OK!.
A source told The Sun on Sunday: “The feud between Nancy and Carlos is really sad and has left everyone really shocked. They’ve been close since childhood, but have fallen out and unfollowed each other on socials.”
Adding to the insights, they said: “The atmosphere on set is said to be awkward and tense when both are around, and to many it was a relief when Carlos didn’t attend the show weeks ago. Carlos is said to be subdued after the falling-out and is also struggling with not getting a celebrity partner. His friends are worried about him as he is so far away from his family.”
The tension is palpable backstage at Strictly Come Dancing, as a source claimed one of the show’s stars has digitally ‘ghosted’ his old dance colleague, deleting her images from his social media and cutting online ties move seen by many as closure on their partnership.
A source disclosed: “He has wiped all pictures of her from his profile and unfollowing each other on Instagram is the ultimate finality in their friendship. With all the other drama in the Clauditorium, it’s the last thing bosses need.” The BBC has been contacted for a comment.
This comes amidst whispers of friction between Nadiya Bychkova and Kai Widdrington following their breakup. In October, Nadiya described their co-working status, saying: “We work together but we are not friends and that’s ok. One thing I can tell you is that when you see me dancing with him it will be amazing because I’m a professional.”
Kai also shared his feelings about not being paired with a celebrity this season on Strictly, expressing his disappointment but retaining hope for the future, adding: “Everyone wants to get a celebrity. Unfortunately, it wasn’t my time this series. Two boys couldn’t have one this series and sadly I am one of them.
“Some of us don’t get partners and that’s the way it is. Let’s see what happens next year. Hopefully I’ll get one then.”
Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One.