Strictly Come Dancing partners Lewis Cope and Katya Jones have been captured engaging in what appeared to be a tense conversation during a break from rehearsals for the upcoming live show.
Serious Rehearsal Break Conversation
The Emmerdale actor, 30, who has impressed audiences with his remarkable dancing skills throughout this series, was seen in deep discussion with his professional partner. Photographs obtained by The Sun showed Lewis with his arms crossed as the pair conversed seriously during their rehearsal break.
An eyewitness told the publication that the dance partners looked particularly focused and intense as they took time out from practising their routine. This week, the duo faces the challenge of mastering the notoriously difficult Rumba, set to Harry Styles's emotional ballad 'Falling'.
Blackpool Bonding Contrasts With Rehearsal Tension
The apparent rehearsal tension presents a stark contrast to the couple's recent outing in Blackpool, where they were seen enjoying a much more relaxed day together ahead of the ballroom special. The pair were photographed loading up on carbohydrates at a traditional fish and chips shop, laughing and appearing in high spirits.
During their Blackpool excursion, Lewis was even spotted wrapping his arm around Katya as she leaned on his shoulder while they explored the seaside hotspot. Braving the chilly British weather, Lewis layered a navy coat over coordinated shirt and trousers, while Katya wrapped up in a long grey coat accessorised with a black fur scarf and chunky lace-up boots.
Girlfriend Support Amid Strictly Curse Concerns
Meanwhile, Lewis has recently opened up about his girlfriend Rachel Maya Lopez's perspective on his close partnership with Katya. The actor, who recently stepped out with his rarely-seen girlfriend, revealed that Rachel is his 'biggest supporter' and concerns about the infamous Strictly curse have 'never been a conversation' between them.
Lewis explained to The Sun: 'Over the years I've had to kiss a lot of people on stage or onscreen, as an actor, so she's used to me kissing boys actually, but it hasn't been a problem.' He added that Katya and Rachel have met and that his girlfriend supports him wholeheartedly, even sending him to rehearsals with packed lunches.
The couple's recent perfect score of 40 earlier this month marked the first full marks of the series, demonstrating their strong dancing connection despite any behind-the-scenes tensions. Representatives for both Lewis and Katya have been contacted by The Daily Mail for comment regarding the rehearsal photographs.
