BROOKS Nader’s friends have grown more and more concerned over the sudden relationship with her Dancing With the Stars partner, Gleb Savchenko, The U.S. Sun can exclusively reveal.
Despite the escalating worry, Brooks has “really fallen” for the Russian dancer – who has earned a “playboy” reputation after being linked to his partners on previous DWTS seasons.
After weeks of teasing their romance, Brooks, 27, and Gleb, 41, appeared to solidify suspicions with a kiss as they were spotted locking lips backstage on the set of DWTS last week.
A source close with the Sports Illustrated model claimed the connection may be even deeper than fans realize, as she “has really started to fall for Gleb.”
“Her friends haven’t seen her this giddy or nervous around a guy before,” the insider exclusively told The U.S. Sun.
The source continued: “They are trying to play it somewhat cool even though it’s out there that they’re a thing now but behind closed doors, they have so much passion.
“But her friends are worried Gleb is just using her. In the past there’s been rumors of him hooking up with his partner. And he does seem so charming and slick.
“Everyone around her is afraid and warning her that after the season ends, so will his interest in her but she isn’t listening to anyone that he’s such a playboy.”
During season 23 of DWTS, it was reported that Gleb “hooked up” with his partner that year, country singer Jana Kramer, while she was separated from her then-husband Mike Caussin.
Despite the reports at the time, Gleb insisted that there was “absolutely no truth” to the rumors he had an affair with Jana.
Gleb and Brooks’ ballroom connection has proven to lead itself off the dance floor after they were spotted on a PDA-packed date on Saturday night.
Photos obtained by The U.S. Sun show the duo leaving Wally’s Bar in Beverly Hills together.
The model showed off her abs in a white crop top tee and tiny denim shorts as she draped her arms lovingly over Gleb.
They couldn’t keep their hands off each other as they walked down the street and eventually, leaned in for a kiss.
Gleb’s hands can be seen rubbing her back as they shared the intimate moment on the sidewalk in front of a couple of their friends.
Shortly after season 33 of DWTS premiered earlier this month, The U.S. Sun revealed that producers behind-the-scenes of the show are “aggressively pushing” the “showmance” between Gleb and Brooks for ratings.
“They know it’s good for ratings but also good for them to get votes so they’re leaning into it.
“She still really likes Gleb. They were really close and touchy after the show.”
The insider added: “Nothing has happened between them yet physically but her friends are all waiting for it. I think they don’t want to complicate things so early in the season but it’s bound to happen.”
The show called out their sizzling romance rumors during the live premiere when host Julianne Hough questioned just how close the bond really is between the pair.
“Brooks you’re one of the most gorgeous humans on the planet. But you two together… you’re like a work of art, it’s really stunning,” the host emphasized.
‘WE HAVE A LOT OF FUN’
She then point-blank asked: “What is your chemistry like?”
Gleb gave a sly smirk and said “we have a lot of fun,” which Brooks agrees with.
They then both give each other a look and showcase a devilish smile before letting out a big laugh – potentially implying something could be bubbling under the surface.
“Y’all are freaking cute,” Julianne added after the duo’s reaction.
Despite their undeniable chemistry, fans were hesitant to believe the relationship was real – and not just a “showmance” produced for the competition.
However, the doubts appeared to be put to bed when Gleb and Brooks were caught kissing backstage of the show.
In the TikTok clip, Brooks can be seen leaning far into Gleb as they shared a passionate peck while producers and other show staffers were around.
THE ‘REAL DEAL’?
It appears the pair did not know they were being filmed at the time and some fans say it’s all the proof they needed to show their connection is the “real deal.”
“Oh yeah, they’re definitely dating,” one person commented.
“Not gonna lie I thought this was fake but look at them, this could be real,” another wrote with the looking eyes emoji.
“Every season always produces a couple. Congrats to Gleb and Brooks on being this season’s it couple,” a TikTok user said.
However, another appears to agree with Brooks’ concerned pals, and said: “I give it until a week after the finale airs. When cameras are done, so will their relationship.”
Brooks and Gleb are both newly single after having split from their exes around the same time earlier this year.
She divorced her husband, Billy Haire, earlier this year after tying-the-knot in 2019 while Gleb revealed in May that he split from his longtime girlfriend in April.
Dancing With the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8pm ET on ABC.