Zara McDermott, 29, found herself in the social media crosshairs after photos emerged of Joey Essex giving her a peck on the cheek at the Cooking With The Stars wrap party. The pictures, taken in the foyer of a London TV studio, sparked accusations that Zara was cheating on her boyfriend, One Direction star Louis Tomlinson.
Fans quickly reacted online, with some citing Zara’s past relationship drama with Made in Chelsea star Sam Thompson as evidence. However, sources close to the couple insist there was nothing inappropriate.
“It was a peck on the cheek at the wrap party and nothing more,” one insider told the Daily Mail. “She and Louis are properly loved up — this isn’t anything.”
Zara and Joey, 35, were only thrown together for two weeks of filming. They share no prior friendship, and the kiss happened purely in the context of the wrap party goodbye. Despite Joey’s reputation as a reality TV flirt, insiders confirm there was no romantic involvement.
Louis reportedly remained unbothered by the photos. Zara has been supporting him on his European tour while taking a break from her work commitments, showing fans that the couple’s bond is strong.
The insider added: “Anyone who buys into this kiss is feeding a false narrative. Louis knows Zara is the real deal, and she’s been nothing but supportive.”
Zara and Louis, together for just over a year, have been working to balance their busy lives and careers — and according to those close to them, their relationship remains solid despite online speculation.
