Strictly star Pete Wicks' huge hair transformation after chopping off signature long locks
Reality TV star Pete Wicks, who is currently ripping up the Strictly dancefloor, left fans stunned this time last year, when he bid farewell to his signature long locks. The TOWIE heartthrob, known for his distinctive appearance, took to Instagram to reveal his drastic new look.
Pete, recognised for his rugged appearance and flowing mane, shared a black and white picture last August that showcased a fresh trim, which seemed to get his fans hot under the collar. The photo revealed his considerably shorter hair, which stylishly curled around his face. In the caption, 'Pirate Pete' posted a pirate flag emoji and a scissor emoji as well as tagging his hairdresser Hair by Harriet Fuller.
The reality star's post generated a buzz among his followers and fans, who were quick to express their thoughts on his bold move. Many flooded the comments section with compliments and messages of approval. One fan wrote: “I need to stop falling in love with men who don’t know I exist.” Another commented: “Well hello Mr Wicks. I feel this suits you better than the disheveled mop look.” A third added: “This is too much to handle first thing in morning” followed by a flame emoji.
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Pete’s unique style, both in terms of fashion and grooming, has made him a recognisable face on and off the screen. The 35 year old was a part of the ITV show from 2015 until 2021 but since he left the show, speculation has been mounting as to why he decided to call it a day. However, he has now said that he was desperate to not become the "Ian Beale of TOWIE" as he referred to the long standing EastEnders character.
The comparison came after some of his popular former co-stars accused him of "disrespecting the show that made him". Pete appeared on the Not My Bagg podcast hosted by Joe Baggs and was asked: "Do you miss being on Towie?" He quickly replied to the question saying: "No, I don't miss it. I've never watched it and I never watched it before I did it, I never watched it when I did it, I've never watched anything I've done on TV."
He added: "I'd been on it for quite a long time and I owe the show quite a lot. The show was good for me for a lot of stuff that I do now. I was starting to become the Ian Beale of TOWIE, just this sort of drunk in the corner, so it was definitely time for me to f****** do one."
Meanwhile, fans are hoping Pete - who opened up exclusively to OK! about his Strictly journey - will return strong to the Strictly dancefloor this weekend, after receiving disappointingly low scores from the judges for his paso doble - but the star is 'optimistic'.
After reflecting on his performance and the feedback given, Pete wrote on his Instagram Stories: "It can only get better," followed by a laughing emoji. He then praised his co-star, pro dancer Jowita, saying: "You're the best!" Jowita was full of praise for her celebrity partner and later responded to Pete on Instagram, saying: "You're the best! So proud of you!"