24 November 2023 , 08:59
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Danny Cipriani has been been pictured cosying up to his Strictly Come Dancing co-star Jowita Pryzstal following his marriage breakdown.
The former England rugby star, 36, has joined the BBC One show's line-up for their Christmas special, in which he has been paired with Jowita, 29. The pair appear to already be getting on well as photos show her smiling while she chats to Danny.
Danny's show booking comes days after he announced his split from his wife Victoria Rose. He shared the news in a statement on Instagram on November 13, which read: "Victoria and I sat together this weekend and agreed to separate after 4 years of marriage. Whilst we've had some wonderful times together, we've also recognised we're on different journeys and whilst this is sad news, it's also a new chapter for us both to purse our own happiness. I only wish the best for Victoria and her children."
Danny Cipriani recently split from his wife Victoria Rose (Instagram/victoriarosecipriani)
Danny has been paired with Jowita for the Strictly Christmas special (PA)Just days on, Danny has signed up for the BBC One dance show and has already met his dance partner for the special. In photos obtained by The Sun, the pair are seen walking down a dark street as Danny is dressed in a beige chunky knit hoodie and dark tracksuit bottoms.
The former rugby ace has a backpack on his back and has tucked white socks into the bottom of his trousers as he topped the look off with a pair of trainers. Jowita, meanwhile, is walking next to Danny in a black puffer coat with a black jumper and leggings on underneath.
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The Strictly dancer, who appears to be single following her split from Giovanni Pernice earlier this year, had the top of her hair tied up in a small bun for a half-up-half-down style. One snap sees her grinning widely as she holds Danny's arm affectionately as the pair stand by an awaiting black Mercedes car.
Danny and Jowita were snapped together on Wednesday, following their first rehearsal session ahead of the show. A source told the publication of the Strictly Christmas pairing: "Danny and Jowita look set to become one of the most sensational couples of this year’s festive special.
"BBC bosses must have had some idea it would be a sizzling pairing on the dancefloor, but on a personal level probably didn’t expect them to get so close, so soon.
"They join a long line of stars and pros who’ve found themselves growing closer as a result of long, intimate sessions in the rehearsal studio."
It comes after Danny spoke out on his split from Victoria earlier this week – sharing the 'only reason' for their break-up. He said in a statement: "After stories being brought to my attention, I'd like to clarify, I have broken up with Victoria for the only reason being we are not right for each other," he wrote in a lengthy statement.
Danny then went on reveal he is staying with the "most beautiful couple", Grayson and Isa, with whom he shares "genuine love and connection." "I am forever grateful," he said. "In challenging times, good friends are a blessing."