Horrified Oti: ‘Don’t link me to Kelvin’
She’s not a fan of the Strictly curse
This year’s Strictly Come Dancing has been surprisingly curse-free. For those of us looking for a subtle bit of flirting or juicy morsel of gossip here and there, we’ve been disappointed. However, last week, reports emerged that professional dancer Oti Mabuse was “furious” with her celebrity partner Kelvin Fletcher for igniting “curse” rumours about their partnership.
A source explained that during the week of the quarter finals, the celebrities were encouraged to stay in London as that’s where the backing dancers are based. However, the source revealed, “Oti knew it was Kelvin and his partner Liz’s anniversary, and was happy for him to go to Manchester, but he didn’t want to. He takes the show seriously and didn’t want to be behind the curve.”
Kelvin – who has been married to Liz Marsland since 2015 and has two children with her – even made a TV appearance on the day, and said, “Today is my wedding anniversary and I’m not at home. It’s gutting really.” The 35-year-old ex-emmerdale star was said to be so devastated about missing his anniversary on the Thursday that Oti was spotted comforting him with a big hug after rehearsals the day before.
Oti, 29 – who is married to fellow dancer Marius Lepure – allegedly hated the idea that people might whisper about them being “struck by the Strictly curse”. The insider added, “Oti was worried his decision may be seen as a reflection on the state of his marriage and the rumour mill would start up. She and Kelvin have a great relationship and are focused on doing their best.” ■