Giovanni Pernice sent fans into a frezny when he was spotted dancing with Kai Widdrington.
The 31-year-old is currently touring the UK with Strictly Come Dancing and is usually partnered with Rose Ayling-Ellis, 28.
However in a striking snap the Italian can be seen in a passionate ballroom hold with Kai, 26.
Fans wondered what was going on when Rose took to Instagram teasing followers she'd been 'replaced'.
Posting of a pic of herself looking stunning in a red and black dress, Rose then shared a snap of Gio and Kai looking every inch the professionals, dressed all in black.
The trio are halfway through their UK tour and the EastEnders actress took to Instagram thanking Birmingham, which was the first stop on the schedule.
The actress, who was the first deaf contestant to appear on Strictly has formed a close bond with Giovanni after the pair won the last series in sensational style.
The Italian- who was dating Love Island's Maura Higgins, paid tribute to his partner when they lifted the Glitterball trophy together in December.
He said: ""You became the best dancer, the best teammate. You are a dream Rose, thank you for everything," he told her."
Meanwhile Kai, who is partnered with ex-EastEnders Maisie Smith on the tour is said to be getting close to professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova.
Nadiya recently split from her fiancé Matija Skarabot, who she shares her daughter Mila Skarabot, 5,.
The dancer has ditched her engagement ring amid speculation that she and Kai are dating.
Nadiya is said to have been "supported" by Kai - who made his debut on Strictly last year - following her split.
Earlier this week it was reported that the pair checked in together at their hotel in Leeds.
A source told the Sun recently that the couple are now "very much together."
Even Strictly judge Shirley Ballas teased the possibility of romances behind the scenes of the arena tour, admitting: "I don't really know what's going on to be honest. It's not my place to say."
The Mirror has contacted Nadiya and Kai's reps for comment.
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