on the rocks
Head over heels ... Kara Tointon and Artem Chigvintsev fell for each other on last year's Strictly
BBCPublished: Today at 00:52
EX-Strictly winner Kara Tointon could be doing the SPLITS — after boyfriend Artem Chigvintsev fled their love nest.
Fed-up Artem stormed out after a series of rows to stay with fellow Strictly pro Robin Windsor.
Pals revealed the couple are close to breaking point. One said: "They've been having a terrible time together and decided they needed some space.
"Artem left their new home and skulked off to Robin's. The stress of the show has been getting to Artem as it's a tough gig with numerous rehearsals that fill up his day.
"They're a very passionate couple so when things flare up, they tend to flare up in a big way. Everyone is worried that the relationship is now doomed."
Kara, 28, began dating Russian pro Artem, 29, as they danced their way to victory in the BBC1 talent show last year.
But Kara has reportedly been jealous of Artem's raunchy routines with Aussie babe Holly Valance who is his partner in this year's contest. Show insiders insist there is nothing going on between Artem and Holly, 28.
One said: "Holly is besotted with her bloke, Nick. She wouldn't dream of spoiling that. She loves dancing with Artem but that's as far as it goes."
Last night a pal of the couple said: "Artem has moved back to their shared home and they're trying to be civil with each other.
"It's too premature to say they have split — but who knows what will happen."
A spokeswoman for Kara last night insisted: "They are very much together."
Pals revealed the couple are close to breaking point. One said: "They've been having a terrible time together and decided they needed some space.
"Artem left their new home and skulked off to Robin's. The stress of the show has been getting to Artem as it's a tough gig with numerous rehearsals that fill up his day.
"They're a very passionate couple so when things flare up, they tend to flare up in a big way. Everyone is worried that the relationship is now doomed."
Kara, 28, began dating Russian pro Artem, 29, as they danced their way to victory in the BBC1 talent show last year.
But Kara has reportedly been jealous of Artem's raunchy routines with Aussie babe Holly Valance who is his partner in this year's contest. Show insiders insist there is nothing going on between Artem and Holly, 28.
New dance partner ... Holly Valance with Artem Chigvintsev
BBCOne said: "Holly is besotted with her bloke, Nick. She wouldn't dream of spoiling that. She loves dancing with Artem but that's as far as it goes."
Last night a pal of the couple said: "Artem has moved back to their shared home and they're trying to be civil with each other.
"It's too premature to say they have split — but who knows what will happen."
A spokeswoman for Kara last night insisted: "They are very much together."