Siwa insists her “genuine” bond with big brother co-star Chris Hughes is not romantic, despite speculation

 JoJo Siwa has officially shut down rumours of a budding romance between her and Celebrity Big Brother UK co-star Chris Hughes, calling their relationship “special” but strictly platonic.

In a candid new interview with Us Weekly published Friday, the 21-year-old pop star and former Dance Moms prodigy opened up about the intense public interest in her friendship with Hughes, a 32-year-old television personality and former Love Island contestant. “What’s so special about Chris and me is that our bond is so genuine that neither of us cares what people make of it,” Siwa said.

The pair struck up a close connection in the Celebrity Big Brother house earlier this year, drawing attention from fans who noticed their chemistry on-screen. The speculation only intensified after Hughes publicly defended Siwa against fellow housemate Mickey Rourke, who used a homophobic slur during a heated exchange.

“Obviously, he stood up for me in the beginning right away, which was beautiful,” Siwa said, reflecting on the moment that sparked their bond. The support meant a lot to her, especially in a high-pressure environment where tensions were running high and emotions raw. From there, the pair became almost inseparable on the show, appearing together in countless clips and even dancing together, on and off camera.

“I literally send him videos of us dancing all the time,” Siwa added with a laugh, describing the playful dynamic they share. But despite all the fan theories and media buzz, she insists there’s no romantic angle to their relationship.

Their bond coincided with Siwa’s pivotal personal realisation. During a conversation with co-star Danny Beard, she revealed a shift in how she sees her own sexuality. “I’ve always told myself I’m a lesbian, but I think being here, I’ve realized, ‘Oh no, I’m not a lesbian, I’m queer,’” she admitted, hinting at a broader understanding of her identity.

That admission came shortly before news broke that Siwa had ended her relationship with Australian influencer Kath Ebbs. The breakup only added fuel to the gossip mill, especially after Siwa and Hughes were spotted spending time together at a golf and tennis club in the UK.

But even with those appearances and a string of cosy photos shared online, Siwa doubled down on the truth behind their relationship: it’s friendship, not romance.

“It’s a great little special friendship that we have,” she explained. “We know our genuine friendship, and we know our bond.”

Hughes has yet to comment publicly on the nature of their relationship since the show ended, but he continues to post photos and updates that include Siwa, suggesting the two have remained close outside the Big Brother house.

It’s not the first time Siwa has been candid about the pressures of public scrutiny. Since coming out in 2021, she’s openly navigated her personal evolution in the spotlight—from redefining her labels to confronting trolls and critics. This latest chapter with Hughes appears to be one of mutual respect, support, and deep connection, regardless of what fans or tabloids might hope for.

As Siwa carves out a new era of adulthood and personal clarity, it seems she’s determined to keep control of the narrative. Romantic or not, her relationship with Hughes marks a meaningful moment in her ongoing journey of self-discovery.