Strictly Come Dancing stars Carlos Gu and Nancy Xu appear to have reignited their feud after unfollowing each other on social media – following rumours of growing backstage tension between the once-close pair
19:00, 27 Sep 2025
Their friendship has been through highs and lows
They once called each other “baby brother” and “favourite sister”, but now it seems Strictly Come Dancing pros Carlos Gu and Nancy Xu have seemingly fallen out again after unfollowing each other on Instagram.
Carlos, 32, and Nancy, 34, share a long history, having grown up together in China before both joining the hit BBC show. Their close friendship was clear for all to see, both on and off screen. But the relationship appears to have soured behind the scenes.
This year’s series sees Carlos paired up with former England footballer Karen Carney, 38, while Nancy has been benched altogether. She addressed the disappointment in an emotional Instagram video, sharing a skit in which she appeared downbeat while others checked on her. She then turned to the camera to speak directly to fans. Nancy said, “I am okay. As you all know now, I don’t have a dance partner on Strictly Come Dancing this year. In the very beginning, when I just received the messages, it did upset me and I did feel disappointed.” She continued, “Coming from China, arriving in this country, all I wanted is to achieve my dream. Strictly has given me such a big platform to allow me to show my skills, show my talent.” Adding,“Of course, I [felt left out] this year, but I’m good. Because I’m still part of the Strictly family.”
READ MORE: Strictly star Thomas Skinner posts defiant message after affair and Covid loan scandalsREAD MORE: Pete Wicks makes sweet promise to Vicky Pattison ahead of first Strictly Come Dancing live showNancy is without a celebrity partner this year(Image: Instagram)
Childhood best friends
Last year, insiders revealed the pair were no longer on speaking terms, which Carlos later confirmed for the first time. He told the Daily Mail, “We’re fine. We’ve been friends since childhood, and friends argue, we’re too close and are like brother and sister to completely fall out.” However, the pair no longer follow each other online, according to reports.
Social media snub
Nancy Xu opened up about her “disappointment” following her Strictly snub(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Following her post about not being given a dance partner this year, Nancy received an outpouring of support as her co-stars rushed to show their love. Former pro Oti Mabuse commented, “Love you angel you are the sweetest friend and most supportive. And it’s a pleasure watching you live your dream every Saturday.” While Kai Widdrington added, “You star will always shine bright beautiful Nancy.” However, noticeably absent was Carlos.
Nancy’s frustration is nothing new, as despite performing well in previous series – including a standout run with Shayne Ward – she’s been overlooked again this year. An insider explained, “Nancy is upset that she’s been benched again – despite having a brilliant run with Harry during the Christmas series.”
They added, “She is absolutely incensed by it all and has said she can’t work out what she’s done to make producers snub her.”
Last year, she won the Christmas special with Jamie Borthwick, yet when he returned for the main show, he was partnered with another pro.
Backstage tension
Despite public reassurances, the situation backstage between the pair has reportedly become uncomfortable. A source told The Sun last year, “They’ve been close since childhood, but have fallen out and unfollowed each other on socials. The atmosphere on set is said to be awkward and tense when both are around.”
Another insider confirmed to MailOnline, “Carlos and Nancy are extremely cordial and always incredibly professional on Strictly premises.”
Despite the setback, Nancy is determined to stay involved in the show, telling fans she’ll take part in other ways.
“This year, you will possibly hear my voice more than ever because I will give all my energy to supporting my Strictly family. I will be there cheering for them,” she said. “Also, you will see me on It Takes Two, Morning Live – those are good things.”
She ended the heartfelt message by thanking fans: “All of your kindness and messages has meant the world to me. I just want you all to know and send all my love to you.”
The Mirror has contacted Carlos Gu and Nancy Xu’s representatives for comment.
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