Strictly’s Karim Zeroual denies he’s dating dance partner Amy behind girlfriend Poppy’s back after romance rumours
KARIM Zeroual denies he's fallen for Strictly Come Dancing's curse and is dating dance partner Amy Dowden behind his girlfriend Poppy's back after a series of romance rumours.
The children's TV presenter, 25, addressed the rumours but says their chemistry comes from the fact they are such close friends.
Speaking to Best magazine, he said: "Oh no - there's nothing going on between me and Amy. I have a girlfriend.
"But Amy and I are really good mates - a bit too good. We tease each other constantly, and it goes a bit far, and she nags me a bit - but look, it is all out of love."
Karim has been dating the Manchester University student for three years, while professional Amy is engaged to Ben Jones.
The presenter is reportedly trying to keep Poppy as involved in his Strictly experience as possible.
A source told The Sun: "Karim was really keen to involve Poppy in his training and wanted her to meet Amy to make sure she felt comfortable.
"They got on really well which is great because Karim knows he'll be spending long hours with Amy and he wants Poppy to feel secure about it."
Poppy was in the audience for the first live show and also joined the dancers - along with Amy's fiance - to the after-party at the studios in Elstree.
While Karim is one of the favourites to win the show, he broke down in tears after being given harsh criticism from the judges this week.
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After being awarded 30 points for his Viennese waltz, he wiped away tears as he told host Claudia Winkleman: "I don't care about how long I am here but I do care about making mistakes, for Amy's sake.
"It's more importantly about my performance, going wrong is a no no. So I am really gutted about that.
"Sorry, I don't know why I am crying."