JoJo Siwa has said that her relationship with Chris Hughes is “not platonic”, ending speculation about their romantic status.
The 22-year-old American star met Chris, 32, during her time on Celebrity Big Brother in April, where the pair quickly became close.
The pair’s bond deepened following JoJo's revelation on the show that she no longer identified as a lesbian but instead felt “more queer.” She also ended her relationship with partner Kath Ebbs at the show’s after party.
Since then, JoJo and Chris, best known for his appearance on Love Island in 2017, have been spotted together both in the UK and the US, sharing intimate photos, including one taken while they were in bed together.
JoJo, who has been tight-lipped about her relationship status for weeks, recently opened up about their relationship status during an interview with The Guardian.
Asked whether her relationship with Chris was “platonic or romantic,” JoJo initially paused but then smiled and replied: “It’s not platonic anymore, and it’s been a beautiful development, a beautiful connection, and I’m absolutely head over heels for him and he’s the same way.”
When questioned about accusations of the relationship being a PR stunt, the singer was quick to deny it, saying: “Clearly, you’ve never been around us. I won’t ever speak for him, but for me personally, the happiness in my life just radiates off of me right now.
“Literally yesterday, I was massaging my cheeks; I’ve never [before] been in pain from smiling so much.”
JoJo also touched on her queer identity, explaining that it best “encompasses how I am, and who I am,” adding: “You can’t help who you love.”
Speaking on Sunday Brunch, JoJo shared her family’s reaction to her new relationship, revealing that her mother, Jessalynn, adores the ITV Racing presenter.
“My parents think the absolute world of him, and him and my dad are like best friends,” she said. “Chris was actually telling me that yesterday they went to the spa together.
“They’re literally best friends. Mum, she absolutely adores him. I love watching her watch us because I’ve never seen my mum so happy.”
She went on to express how natural it feels for Chris to be part of her family: “It feels like we’re a family. It feels like he’s been in my family for however many years. It feels like they just all get along as well as I do.”
