BBC Strictly Come Dancing stars 'refuse to speak' as 'bitter feud' erupts behind-the-scenes
by Monde Mwitumwa, Lauren Morris, Lucretia Munro · DevonLiveStrictly Come Dancing has been plunged into another controversy as professional dancers Carlos Gu, 33, and Nancy Xu, 34, are reportedly not on speaking terms and have even unfollowed each other on social media.
The childhood friends from China have allegedly had a falling out over the fact that Carlos was not given a celebrity partner this year while Nancy was paired with Shayne Ward.
Carlos used to fondly refer to Nancy as his "favourite sister" and she would call him her "baby brother." However, it appears that Carlos feels overlooked as Nancy focuses on advancing in the competition, aiming for the Glitterball trophy.
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."
They further added: "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."
Tensions in the Strictly claustrophobic Clauditorium are apparently soaring as sources claim a show favourite has digitally ditched his previous dance partner, reports OK!
"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 source has said.
The BBC has been contacted for a comment.
This news follows rumoured discord between Nadiya Bychkova and Kai Widdrington after their split earlier this year. In October, discussing their work dynamic, Nadiya remarked: "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."
Elsewhere, Kai spoke earlier in the year about his disappointment at not having a celebrity partner this Strictly season, saying: "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.