Chris Hughes has made a dramatic U-turn on his appearance in the upcoming season of Celebs Go Dating, pulling out of the show at the last minute following his emotionally intense stint on Celebrity Big Brother.
The 32-year-old had initially agreed to join the E4 dating series before entering the Big Brother house.
However, following his three-week stay in the house, during which he formed a notably close connection with U.S. singer and fellow contestant JoJo Siwa, Hughes has opted to step back.
In a joint statement to Daily Mail, representatives for both Hughes and Celebs Go Dating confirmed the decision by saying, “Before entering Big Brother, Chris agreed to join the Celebs Go Dating agency and have his love life placed in the hands of the experts. However, after an incredible but very intense experience in Big Brother, he is taking some time to decompress.”
Moreover, the spokesperson added that the decision was mutual, following discussions with his team, and while he won’t be joining the show this year, “the door is open for the future.”
Additionally, Hughes was expected to replace Christine McGuinness, who reportedly exited the dating series two weeks into filming, as per Daily Mail’s claims.
He would have joined a cast including ex-Love Island star Olivia Hawkins, S Club 7’s Jon Lee, and former Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona.
Hughes’ exit came amid speculation over his close relationship with Siwa.
During their time in the Big Brother house, the pair’s chemistry sparked rumors of a potential romance, intensified when JoJo publicly ended her relationship with Kath Ebbs at the show’s wrap party, as per the outlet.
Adding to speculation, Hughes and Siwa referred to each other as “soulmates” during a joint appearance on This Morning and have reportedly been using a secret double-tap gesture as a code for “I love you,” according to observant fans.
While both stars have insisted their bond is platonic, JoJo said, “Look, he’s a great guy. It’s platonic. We have a lot of fun together. I don’t know the future—whatever life does, it will do.”
