TOWIE’S James Argent has struck up shock a romance with Love Island’s Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu.
The pair have reportedly grown close after enjoying cosy dates in each other’s Essex homes.
James is said to have been supportive towards Ekin following her dramatic elimination from Celebrity Big Brother in March.
Sources have told the Daily Mail that although the couple are not “official,” they are excited to see where their relationship could go.
James is the first person Ekin has been romantically linked with since her split from Love Island boyfriend Davide Sanclimenti in January.
The former TOWIE star James also hasn’t been seen with anyone since parting ways with Stella Turian, 19, last November.

Picture: Brian McEvoy
An insider told MailOnline: “James lives close to Ekin, they are practically neighbours – so when she needed a friend after Celebrity Big Brother, he was there for her.”
“Their friendship developed into something stronger and they started to spend more time together, even passionately kissing.”
“It’s still early days and they both appreciate they need to take it slow, having come out of high-profile relationships in the past six months… but there’s no denying the feelings and chemistry between them.”
It was rumoured that the 29-year-old was struggling with the backlash she received since she was voted off the show in March.
The former Love Islander opened up about why this was the “right decision” for her to make.
Taking to her Instagram stories, Ekin-Su wrote: “I know it’s unlike me to hide away, but I’ve been taking some time to reflect.”
“Sometimes in our lowest moments, we learn the most important lessons about ourselves.”
“I hope you don’t think I was selfish for setting boundaries and putting my own needs first last night. I’m fully aware that not everybody will understand my absence, or think it was the right decision to make, BUT it was the right decision for me.”
“I chose to remove myself from a potentially uncomfortable situation that I preferred to avoid. I’m proud of myself for recognising what I need during this time, despite the hate that might come my way,” she added.
“Accountability is key and when I’m ready, I will give some context around these past few weeks. Thank you to everybody who has sent kindness my way, I see you, and I appreciate you. The new chapter starts now.”
Ekin-Su concluded by saying: “I hope everybody enjoyed watching the CBB final. A huge congratulations to David for the win. Xx”