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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Jasmine Allday

Shirley Ballas hints at Strictly tour romance amid Nadiya and Kai Widdrington rumours

Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas has hinted at secret romances on the show's live tour - amid rumours Kai Widdrington and Nadiya Bychkova are dating.

Fans of the BBC One show are being treated to performances from some of the biggest Strictly stars - including winners Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice, as well as runner ups John Whaite and Johannes Radebe.

Maisie Smith also stepped in to dance with Kai Widdrington after AJ Odudu was forced to pull out due to injury, whilst Nadiya Bychkova - who is rumoured to be dating Kai - is also taking part on the tour.

Now head judge Shirley has teased some possible romances between those on the tour following the rumours.

Shirley Ballas has hinted at secret Strictly romances (ITV)

Asked on ITV's Lorraine about the rumours, she remained coy as she said: "Romancing and dancing - I don't really know what's going on to be honest. It's not my place to say whose what where and when so ... There's always rumours!"

Lorraine then replied: "You know what if it adds more sparkle to the dancing and passion, then we're all for it."

It comes after sources claimed pro dancers Kai and Nadiya are getting close following the end of her marriage.

Lorraine and Shirley chatted about the rumours (ITV)

"Nadiya and Kai have incredible chemistry, and a very strong friendship," the insider said.

"Right from week one they ­connected, and are always laughing and messing about. He has cheered her up and made her smile again. They’re great mates, and lots of people backstage think they’d make a really cute ­couple when the time is right."

Elsewhere, Kai has also been seen getting cosy with EastEnders actress Maisie Smith, whilst other photos show Maisie and Nikita - who is partnered with Tilly for the dances on the tour - looking friendly.

The Strictly Come Dancing tour will continue throughout January, ending on February 13 (David Fisher/REX/Shutterstock)

Maisie signed up to the tour after AJ was forced to pull out due to injury.

She said at the time: "I’m thrilled to be asked to restart my Strictly journey on this year’s arena tour. Kai and I will be dancing the quickstep and the samba – I can’t wait for rehearsals to start next week.

"It will be a joy to dance with everyone and so great to see my EastEnders friend Rose again. I wish AJ a speedy recovery."

The tour will continue through January and end on February 13 at London's O2 Arena.

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