Pete Wicks’ Inspiring Career Reinvention – From Million-Pound Debt and Cheating Scandals to Strictly Success and Becoming the ‘New Paul O’Grady’

Pete Wicks – once known as a “bad boy” caught up in reality TV drama and scandals – has undergone an incredible career transformation and personal reinvention. From a figure defined by controversy, he has emerged as a “national sweetheart” thanks to his performance on Strictly Come Dancing, a growing career in animal welfare, and revealing a softer, more genuine side of himself.

At 37, Pete Wicks has rewritten his story, transitioning from a notorious “bad boy” to a beloved public figure. Let’s dive into this remarkable journey.

Starting Out on The Only Way Is Essex
Pete Wicks first grabbed attention in 2015 when he joined ITV’s reality show The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE). Introduced as a friend of James Lock, his rugged appearance, long hair, and tattooed “Pirate Pete” persona instantly made him stand out. Initially thinking his time on the show would be brief, the producers had bigger plans for him.

His romantic relationships with Megan McKenna, Shelby Tribble, and Chloe Sims became central to the show’s drama. However, Pete’s reputation took a major hit when he was caught texting other women behind Megan’s back, earning him the “bad boy” label. Despite this, his quick wit and charisma kept him in the spotlight. Vulnerable moments, like silently mouthing the lyrics during Megan’s Christmas performance, hinted at the softer side he would later become known for.

Leaving TOWIE and Facing Challenges
By 2021, Pete had enough of TOWIE. In a candid interview on the Not My Bagg podcast, he shared, “I was starting to feel like the Ian Beale of TOWIE, just some drunk guy in the corner, so it was definitely time for me to get out.” Leaving the show wasn’t just a break from reality TV drama; it also coincided with personal and financial struggles.

His company, PW Promotions Ltd, went bankrupt with debts of £100,000. Meanwhile, a clothing brand he co-founded with TOWIE co-star Jake Hall racked up losses close to £800,000. However, with sheer determination to rebuild, Pete embarked on a journey of reinvention.

Friendship with Sam Thompson – A Positive Turning Point
Pete’s life took a positive turn in 2019 when he met Sam Thompson from Made in Chelsea on Celebs Go Dating. Their unlikely bromance – Sam’s bubbly energy contrasting with Pete’s brooding demeanor – turned them into an internet sensation. Fans loved Sam’s pranks, from staging fake paparazzi moments to pulling Pete into viral dance routines.

Their chemistry led to a Channel 4 show, Pete and Sam’s Reality News, and the popular podcast Staying Relevant, where they humorously chronicle their efforts to stay famous. The duo also launched a production company under the same name. Pete once said, “Sam has been key in helping me open up about my feelings.”

Strictly Come Dancing – A Career-Defining Moment
Despite admitting he’d never watched Strictly Come Dancing before signing up, Pete’s decision to join the iconic show marked a major turning point in his career. Encouraged by friends and management, Pete saw it as a chance to shed his “bad boy” image.

Paired with professional dancer Jowita Przystal, Pete embraced the challenge with full commitment. The pair made it to the semi-finals, and Pete won over a brand-new audience. Fans raved about his vulnerability, charm, and dedication. Pete shared, “A lot of people have messaged me saying they had a certain opinion of me before Strictly, but then they really appreciated what they saw on the show, which is wonderful.”

A New Career Path and Passion for Animals
Pete’s transformation isn’t limited to dancing. His passion for animals has become a defining part of his public persona. As a devoted dog dad to his French bulldogs, Eric and Peggy, Pete is channeling his love for animals into a new documentary series, Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake.

Produced by the BBC and set to air on UKTV, the show follows Pete as he works with Dogs Trust to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome vulnerable dogs. This marks his debut as a presenter. Pete gushed, “Animals make me happy, they make me feel good. They live in the moment, and I think that’s a beautiful thing we as humans don’t really do. If we were more like animals, that would be amazing!” The series has already drawn comparisons to Paul O’Grady’s beloved For the Love of Dogs, with some calling Pete the “tattooed Paul O’Grady.”

Relationship with Maura Higgins – A Softer Side Revealed
Pete’s gentler side has become even more evident through his relationship with Love Island star Maura Higgins. After months of speculation, Pete recently confirmed their romance in an interview with The Times. He said, “We’ve known each other for a very long time. We’re very close,” adding that he values privacy despite being in the public eye.

Their relationship gained attention just before Maura joined I’m A Celebrity. Fans began speculating when both posted from the same pub on Christmas Day. More recently, they enjoyed a romantic getaway at the luxurious Soho Farmhouse, with Maura captioning a video by the fireplace: “Checked into the Farm.”

Conclusion: Pete Wicks’ Inspiring Journey
From a “bad boy” entangled in debt and scandals, Pete Wicks has reinvented himself into an inspiring figure with a diverse career and a warm heart. Whether on the dance floor of Strictly Come Dancing, as a presenter advocating for animals, or through meaningful friendships and romance, Pete has proven that your past doesn’t define who you are. With exciting projects on the horizon and growing public adoration, Pete Wicks’ journey is far from over. What do you think of this transformation? Share your thoughts!