I'm a Celeb's Maura Higgins and Pete Wicks 'will decide what they really want' during time apart

I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! star Maura Higgins and former TOWIE heartthrob Pete Wicks may form a "deeper connection" amid spending weeks apart, a relationship expert has claimed. The couple have been stirring up the rumour mill with their recent cozy sightings, sparking whispers about a possible romance blossoming.

Despite being seen together frequently, including an alleged kiss, both reality TV celebs have put a lid on the speculation, maintaining that they're just good pals for now.

However, according to love expert Jesper Jensen from ExpertsEnAmour, the distance between them as Maura braves the Australian jungle could very well be the magic ingredient needed for their friendship to evolve into something more.

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Speaking to Reach PLC, Jensen explained, "Time apart helps people figure out what they really want. If they genuinely value each other and prioritise regular communication, this separation could deepen their connection and clarify whether they're ready to make things official. Distance gives perspective and makes relationships stronger."

Before jetting off for her jungle adventure, 33-year-old Maura confirmed her single status, saying, "I mean, I've been on a date with many people," she said. "I'm not [dating]. Where have you heard that? I date but I'm very much single."

She also spoke fondly of Pete, detailing their instant rapport which began post-Love Island in 2019.

On Paul C. Brunson's podcast 'We Need To Talk', she confessed, "Our humour is the same. It's like that sick, dark humour. It's very abusive. We abuse each other."

Strictly sensation Pete, 36, has laughed off the rumours of a romance. Speaking candidly he remarked on Olivia Attwood's So Wrong, It's Right podcast: "Very nasty, hilarious. We just get on very, very well. Very, very well. I adore him, he's amazing."

He swiftly put to bed any speculation surrounding his relationship status with Maura, insisting, "I think Maura is great and we get on very well and have done for a very long time."

Further dismissing gossip about his love life, despite the presenter's playful doubt, Pete diverted the conversation to talk about his Strictly experience, subsequently cutting short any more whispers about a possible connection between himself and dance partner Jowita Przystał.

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