PETE Wicks was spotted ‘cosying up’ to a Strictly pro ahead of his debut this weekend.

The former Only Way Is Essex star appears to already be making links with the pro dancers on the under-fire series.

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Pete, 36, was reportedly spotted cosying up to Jowita Przystał at this year’s National Television Awards.

An eagle-eyed guest told the MailOnline how Pete and the Polish dancer were engrossed in conversation in a corridor backstage at the O2 Arena in London.

They explained: “Pete was admiring Jowita outfits and told her she looked stunning. They were deep in conversation, and were both leaning in close. It got people talking and wondering if there might be a Strictly romance this year after all.

“There was a lot of affection between the pair. He was whispering in her ear which really made her smile.

“At one point, Pete placed a protective hand on Jowita’s shoulder, it all looked very lovey dovey.

“They’ve clearly formed a very close bond during their time on Strictly.”

Meanwhile, the Strictly pros are said to have been left ‘entirely in the dark’ about the ongoing abuse and bullying probe.

The dancers, who are already training for the upcoming series, are still terrified they will be dragged into the drama and fear ‘who will go next’.

The Sun first told in July how dancers past and present are said to have discussed concerns among themselves that historic disagreements might be flagged to bosses.

We revealed at the time that the pros were worried that even simple spats could see them dragged before BBC execs.

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