Pete Wicks was visibly moved following his emotional Strictly Come Dancing performance. The ex-TOWIE star delivered a poignant Couple’s Choice routine alongside his dance partner Jowita Przystal.

His dance, set to Tina Turner’s ‘Simply The Best’, was a tribute to her. He confessed: “I feel more pressure this week than any other. This is my way of her being part of that adventure.”

Post-performance, Pete found it hard to hold back tears.

Speaking to host Claudia Winkleman, he said: “Been a tough week, but the one person I wish was here is my nan and she’s not so it’s the one way for her being here”, reports the Mirror.

Pete’s nan Doreen passed away in 2022, and he has often referred to her as his “best friend” and “soul mate”. In his book ‘Never Enough’, Pete described her passing as “the hardest thing” he’s ever had to deal with.

“Mum and I sat either side of her, holding each hand,” he wrote. “I can remember the last words she said to me as if it were yesterday: ‘You’re my soulmate’.”

Viewers were also touched by Pete’s heartfelt performance, with one commenting: “Pete did absolutely wonderful and it was a fantastic performance. Heart goes out to him, he lost his nan and I’m sure she would be proud looking down from heaven.”

Another remarked: “Pete Wicks put so much emotion into that Couple’s Choice he was dancing in his own little world. I hope going forward he applies the same to the other dances that come up.”

One person took to social media to express their admiration, writing: “Pete Wicks has just had his breakthrough moment on #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing. A beautiful dance that really meant something. The emotion was authentic and it really showed how far Pete has come in this competition. I just want to hug him! That was gorgeous! ” Meanwhile, another viewer observed Pete’s emotional restraint: “Pete trying not to cry.”

Further praise came from another fan who commented on the personal nature of the Couple’s choice: “Couple’s choice is such a personal thing to the celebs and Pete was no different…his confidence, poise was phenomenal- at some points Jowita looked like she was floating.”

In preparation for the show, Pete decided to step outside for a smoke to soothe his nerves. Seizing a moment of tranquility, he ventured out during rehearsals for a bit of fresh air.

Spotted backstage at the Strictly Elstree studios, Pete was seen donning a beige silk shirt, left half-unbuttoned, coupled with matching trousers, his signature long dark locks pulled into a half ponytail while ditching shoes for bare feet. Notable also were the bandages wrapped around both of his feet as he paused to light up a cigarette.

Last week, the intense energy of Icons Week was palpable as Pete delivered a Freddie Mercury-inspired salsa. He and partner Jowita executed an enthusiastic routine to Queen’s famed track “Another One Bites The Dust”.

Yet amidst a daring lift, audiences were left holding their breath as Jowita narrowly missed a tumbling fate. As they embraced following the performance, Pete was overheard conveying a sincere apology to her, whispering: “I’m sorry, darling. I’m sorry. I’m so so sorry.”

Jowita comforted the TOWIE celebrity, assuring him that everything was alright. Nevertheless, the judges noticed his slip-ups and, despite taking pleasure in his performance, suggested he needs to “get better.”