Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez have confirmed their an item – but were NOT together on Strictly Come Dancing.
The pair danced on last year’s series, albeit with separate partners.
Gemma Atkinson performed with pro Aljaž Škorjanec while Gorka was partnered with Gemma’s fellow celebrity contestant Alexandra Burke.
During the show there were rumours of a romance between the pair, and they confirmed on Valentine’s Day it was official.
But Gemma has insisted they didn’t ever get together during the series last year.
“During the show we only saw each other at weekends everyone was saying ‘oh they’re together’ but we genuinely weren’t,” Gemma told the Manchester Evening News.
She explained: “We just went for coffee and stuff on Sundays, not every Sunday.
“You can’t get to know someone just by seeing them at weekends.
“It was only when the tour started that we saw each other all the time and we thought oh ok this could work, and it did, and it does so far!”
Opening up about the relationship, Gemma continued: “He’s very funny.
“I like the fact that he’s funny he makes me laugh and because he’s in London and I’m in Manchester I think that’s a good thing because you both have to make an effort to see each other.
“When you’re not working with someone it’s very convenient and easy I’m very aware of that and when you’re separated that’s when you have to make the effort and it’s sweet that’s nice.”
Gemma and Gorka went public with their romance last week, sharing loved up pictures on Instagram.
Gemma posted of a snap of herself and Gorka on the beach: “Here’s to many more kid. Happy Valentines Day ? @gorka_marquez”
Revealing they had enjoyed a holiday away together, Gemma added: “From sharing post rehearsal pancakes on a wet day in London to an amazing holiday in the Canaries. What a fun week we’ve had @gorka_marquez ?”
Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One.
