Strictly Come Dancing: Giovanni Pernice's secret girlfriend 'jealous' of his relationship with Debbie McGee

When this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing kicked off earlier this year, Debbie McGee and her professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice were probably the couple fans thought were least likely to fall victim to the dreaded ‘Strictly curse’.

However, Giovanni’s secret girlfriend, Luba Mushtuk, is “jealous” of the 27-year-old dancer’s growing relationship with 59-year-old Debbie, it has been reported.

Luba danced with Giovanni on his previous tour and the pair have reportedly been close for many years, however, Luba has been unable to warm to Debbie because of her bond with Giovanni.

A source told The Sun: “Luba and Giovanni are together. But she doesn’t like Debbie because of their bond — she feels how much Gio cares for her.

“It’s also upsetting as she would like their romance to be out in the open. Luba is very keen to be on the show one day.

“She assists with choreography. But that means she has to spend a lot of time watching Giovanni rehearse with Debbie which can be uncomfortable for her.”

Debbie and Giovanni have received high marks from the Strictly judges due to their sizzling chemistry, with the pair becoming the first couple to receive a perfect score of ’40’ this series.

Debbie and Giovanni have also been spotted being affectionate with one another away from Strictly rehearsals, however, Debbie previously rubbished claims that there was anything romantic going on between them.

She said at the time: “The truth is we really like each other but it isn’t a love affair.

“We love each other, but we are not in love with each other. It’s just one of those very special friendships. He’s 30 years younger than me!”

Debbie is currently the favourite to win this year’s Strictly, with odds of 9/2.

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