Jessica Marais
finds love
As she walked into a service at the Hillsong Church in Sydney’s Alexandria last Tuesday, onlookers couldn’t help but notice there was an extra bounce in Jessica Marais’ step.
By her side was the man who’s made the leap from “very good friend” to new love, Sydneybased photographer Jake Holly. Holding hands and swinging
their arms together, the pair were blissfully unaware of the gazes they were drawing from fellow churchgoers.
“They were really touchy-feely and it’s clear they’re in love,” an onlooker tells Woman’s Day of the surprise appearance by the Love Child actress at the service.
Jessica and Jake made their first public appearance only a fortnight ago, when they attended a Sam Smith concert at Nova’s Red Room in Sydney.
HEAD OVER HEELS
Although the Logie-winning actress played coy at the time, saying they were “really good friends”, a source close to the 33-year-old reveals the pair are an official item. And things are getting really serious for the couple – Jake is believed to have already met Jess’ five-year-old daughter Scout.
“They’re head over heels with each other quite frankly,” a friend of Jessica’s tells Woman’s Day. “He’s been spending a lot of time with her and staying at her place many nights a week. It’s obvious whatever is going on is a blossoming romance.”
Jake, adds our source, is thought to be the one who’s introduced Jessica to Hillsong, with the couple attending a service near her home.
The Pentecostal Megachurch is a favourite among celebrities all over the world, including Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, who utilise their fame and social media accounts to bring more attention to the at-times controversial religion.
Jessica has always been notoriously private. But since she began visiting Hillsong congregations she’s joined Instagram, and for her very first post she uploaded an intimate photo of herself and Jake.
WEDDING BELLS
And eagle-eyed fans couldn’t help but notice Jess was wearing a band on her wedding finger for the telling snap!
For now, it’s not certain if an engagement – or even a shotgun wedding – has taken place. But friends say they’re thrilled to see the actress in such great spirits.
“Jess seems to be in a happy place,” shared our insider. “And if Jake’s a positive influence on her, bringing out her strong, healthy values, then that’s fantastic.”
‘They were really touchyfeely – it’s clear they’re in love’