Television personality Olivia Attwood has opened up about her relationship with former TOWIE co-star Pete Wicks. She shared a look into how their friendship turned into a romance. Speaking on ITV’s Loose Women on September 30, 2026, the 35-year-old reality star discussed their partnership and how Wicks has changed since they began dating.
Appearing alongside Jane Moore, Christine Lampard, and Katie Piper, Attwood addressed comments about her partner’s happier demeanor. Panelist Jane Moore noted that Wicks smiles much more frequently now than in the past.
People keep writing in the comments that they’ve never seen him smile before but he does smile a lot now. I think I’ve softened him a little bit. – Olivia Attwood
The couple sparked dating rumors earlier this year after Attwood’s marriage to footballer Bradley Dack ended. After months of keeping their connection private, Wicks and Attwood hard-launched their relationship during an Ibiza trip. They later made their official red carpet debut at the National Television Awards (NTAs) in September.
Navigating the Transition from Friends to Partners
Despite their long friendship, Attwood admitted she initially kept the 37-year-old star at arm’s length when things turned romantic. Speaking on Kaitlyn Bristowe’s Off the Vine podcast, she noted that Wicks expressed his romantic feelings soon after her split from Dack.
“I kept him at arm’s length for a hot minute, but I knew straight away we had a connection that I hadn’t been aware of,” Attwood shared. Addressing critics of her quick return to dating, she added that she refuses to follow a strict societal playbook for her personal life.
Wicks has been equally vocal about the romance. He admitted on Heart Breakfast that he has gone “all in” on the relationship. “Liv and I have known each other for a long time, and yeah, like it’s amazing. She’s like my best friend, but also someone I really fancy,” Wicks told listeners.
Balancing Public Interest and Privacy
As they navigate their public relationship, Attwood confessed that balancing sharing their journey with fans and maintaining privacy is challenging. With millions of combined social media followers, the broadcaster acknowledges that their high-profile pairing draws immense public curiosity.
“Now that people know we’re together, we’re working out not shutting people out who have been so lovely and happy for us… but also making sure that we keep enough back that’s just for us,” Attwood explained to the Daily Mail.
Attwood continues to manage her busy television career, including hosting ITV2’s The Price of Perfection and recording her weekly podcast, while building a solid foundation with Wicks.
