Strictly Come Dancing star Rachel Stevens has revealed that her fiancé encourages her to make her dance routines with partner Vincent Simone as raunchy as possible.
The 30-year-old former pop star says far from being jealous of their on-screen chemistry, her man Alex Bourne has told her to capitalise on it.
‘Because he’s an actor he totally understands it’s a performance. He’s very secure about our relationship and tells me to be as raunchy as I can.
‘He thinks if people believe there’s something going on between me and Vincent then we’re doing our job right.
‘He’s so brilliant. Not many men would be as comfortable with it, but he’s great,’ she tells The Sun.
Viewers have been gripped by the relationship between the pair and even the judges have commented on their bond.
‘Those legs were made for wrapping around Vincent. If legs could talk, yours would tell a few stories,’ Arlene Phillips said after last week’s tango.
But Rachel insists that there’s no chance of a romance between her and Vincent.
‘I’m soon to be a married lady. I’ve got a wonderful man and a wonderful dance partner, I’m double lucky,’ she declares.
However she admits that she can see why previous Strictly contestants such as Vincent’s former partner Flavia Cacace and ex-EastEnders actor Matt di Angelo have fallen for each other.
‘I understand how that happens. You spend so much time together, you dance closely and it’s very physical.
‘Vincent and I have really bonded and he’s such a lovely, warm, passionate person – he’s bringing that passion out in me as well. He’s a real flirt. We have so much fun.’
Rachel, who says she has lost a stone and dropped two dress sizes during her time on the BBC programme, is looking forward to the final and hoping to take home the Strictly crown.
‘It’s been an incredible experience. I would absolutely love to win.
‘To come this far and to be crowned champion with Vincent, who I love, would be amazing – the best Christmas present ever,’ she said.
Earlier the star denied reports that she had injured her back and needed emergency surgery before Saturday’s final.
‘She is not having any emergency treatment apart from taking pain-killers,’ said her spokesman.
‘All the dancers are suffering from aches and pains but it’s nothing out of the ordinary.’
Kevin Spector, Head of Music & Programming of digital music programmer Music Choice believes Rachel’s career will be rejuvenated, whether or not she wins Strictly.
He said: ‘I would predict that Rachel will have a number one single in 2009.
‘She had amazing success as part of the band S Club 7, and like Alesha, could capture the same glory as a solo artist.
‘Strictly Come Dancing gives artists a much-needed boost and can help propel them back to the top of the charts.’
Last week’s show has been at the centre of a voting controversy after a tied judges’ score meant all three acts proceeded to the final.
Source: Daily Mail