The BRIT Awards always bring together some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, but this year, it seems the event also led to some awkward near-misses.

Strictly Come Dancing star Pete Wicks reportedly made an early exit from a BRITs afterparty to avoid an uncomfortable encounter with his ex, Maura Higgins.
Pete and Maura’s Short-Lived Romance
Pete Wicks and Maura Higgins’ romance first caught the attention of fans during his time on Strictly Come Dancing.

The former TOWIE star had viewers swooning as his relationship with the Love Island beauty made headlines.

Their chemistry sparked excitement, especially when Pete entered the I’m A Celebrity jungle and openly admitted he missed Maura while competing on the show.

However, despite the initial spark, their relationship was short-lived. Reports later emerged that the couple had gone their separate ways after experiencing “a few clashes.” While many celebrity exes manage to maintain a civil relationship post-breakup, it appears Pete and Maura have no interest in rekindling their friendship.
The BRITs Seating Drama
Both Pete and Maura attended this year’s BRIT Awards, but sources say they were seated uncomfortably close to each other during the ceremony. Pete was joined at his table by his close friend and fellow reality star Sam Thompson, as well as Olivia Attwood. Meanwhile, Maura, who attended the event solo, was placed at a table directly opposite her former flame.
Despite their close proximity, the exes successfully avoided a direct confrontation throughout the evening. However, the situation became even more complicated when they both ended up at the same afterparty, making it difficult for Pete to steer clear of Maura entirely.
Why Pete Left the Afterparty Early
An insider at the event revealed that Maura was in high spirits at the afterparty, spending time with I’m A Celebrity co-star Danny Jones and professional dancer Oti Mabuse. She also appeared to be enjoying the company of TikTok star Luke Hamnett, chatting and partying into the night.
Meanwhile, Pete stuck close to his friend Olivia Attwood throughout the evening. Rather than risk a run-in with Maura, the 37-year-old decided to make an early exit. He reportedly left the party in a taxi alongside Olivia and Sam Thompson, effectively dodging any potential awkwardness.

The Olivia Attwood Factor
While Pete and Maura’s history may have been enough of a reason for him to avoid her at the event, there may have been another factor at play—Olivia Attwood. It’s no secret that Olivia and Maura have had their fair share of tension in the past.
Reports suggest that Olivia and Maura had a falling out last year after Olivia accused the Love Island star of copying her career trajectory. According to sources, Olivia believed Maura was using the “same script” that helped her rise to fame, from her approach on the ITV2 dating show to signing with the same PR company.
Given their alleged feud, it’s possible that Pete’s decision to leave early wasn’t just about Maura but also about avoiding any drama involving Olivia. With tensions still lingering, it made sense for Pete to remove himself from the situation altogether.
Will Pete and Maura Ever Reconnect?
With both Pete and Maura continuing to thrive in their respective careers, it seems unlikely that they will cross paths regularly in the future. Maura has successfully transitioned from reality TV star to in-demand presenter and social media influencer, while Pete remains a popular figure in British entertainment, having expanded his career beyond TOWIE.

For now, it appears that both stars are focused on their own lives, and if their actions at the BRITs are anything to go by, they have no interest in rekindling any sort of relationship—friendship or otherwise.
While celebrity exes bumping into each other at major events is inevitable, Pete Wicks made it clear that he had no interest in any awkward encounters. By leaving the afterparty early, he successfully sidestepped any potential drama, ensuring that his BRITs night ended on his own terms.
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