Strictly pros 'refusing to speak' to each other as they 'unfollow' amid 'bitter feud'

Controversy has once again struck the latest series of Strictly Come Dancing, after reports emerged that professional dancers Carlos Gu, 33, and Nancy Xu, 34, have ceased communication with one another, unfollowing each other on social media.

Carlos and Nancy, who have been acquainted since their youth in China, have supposedly clashed due to Carlos not being assigned a celebrity partner this year, while Nancy has been paired with Shayne Ward.

Carlos had often affectionately referred to Nancy as his "favourite sister" while Nancy would call him her "baby brother."

Nevertheless, it seems that Carlos has been feeling neglected as Nancy strives to advance in the competition and claim 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."

The source continued: "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 apparently palpable in the Clauditorium as a source claimed: "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 follows reports of a strained relationship between Nadiya Bychkova and Kai Widdrington after their breakup earlier this year, reports OK!

In October, Nadiya commented on their professional dynamic, 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."

In a similar vein, Kai earlier this year shared his feelings about not being paired with a celebrity for the current series of Strictly, expressing: "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.