Stacey Dooley's close friendship with her Strictly Come Dancing mentor Kevin Clifton was the 'final straw' in the breakdown of her relationship with Sam Tucknott, pals of the star have claimed.
Earlier this week it was reported that Stacey had become the Strictly curse strikes again as Stacey Dooley SPLITS from long-term boyfriend after three years and split with Sam after three years.
The news came just three months after Stacey was crowned winner of Strictly 2018 alongside professional dancer Kevin.
Friends of documentary-maker Stacey have now claimed that it was her bond with 'charismatic' Kevin that caused friction between her and Sam.
Though they say there's no indication anything romantic occurred between the strictly champs, who remain good mates.
A pal of Stacey's claimed to The Sun: "Before Stacey took part in the show she was resolute that she wouldn’t fall victim to the curse of Strictly and that she and Sam were tight.
“However, he found it tough that she would spend hours and hours dancing in the arms of another man and away from home."
Stacey and Kevin were in rehearsals every week four months during their time in the competition.
Strictly curse strikes again as Stacey Dooley SPLITS from long-term boyfriend after three years
The pair continued to stay friends after the series wrapped in December.
During the final weeks, friends claimed Sam became 'paranoid' that he and Stacey were gong to split - though she allegedly assured him there was nothing to worry about.
Stacey even took the time to publicly pay tribute to Sam when rumours swirled about her closeness with Kevin.
Stacey Dooley breaks silence on split from boyfriend with message to singletons
The presenter took to Instagram to thank Sam, 30, for his support and patience as she worked towards the final.
"Love you sweetheart," she told him, adding: "Forever grateful for your patience.”
But despite the show of solidarity, the couple of three years called it quits this month.
Stacey is now the fourteenth celebrity to break-up with her partner after appearing on the popular BBC dance show.
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