After months of whispers, teasing glances and undeniable on-screen chemistry that set social media buzzing, Stephen Mulhern has finally addressed the romance rumours linking him to Josie Gibson — and his heartfelt words have left fans grinning from ear to ear. 

The speculation first ignited backstage at Saturday Night Takeaway, when Stephen and Josie were spotted holding hands — a simple, fleeting moment that instantly sparked nationwide debate. Were they just close colleagues… or was something deeper quietly unfolding behind the scenes? 

For weeks, neither star confirmed nor denied the rumours. Stephen initially played it down during an appearance on This Morning, joking: “She didn’t turn up to rehearsals, so I held her hand and showed her where to stand — that’s it, finito!”

But the blush that followed spoke volumes — and fans weren’t convinced.

Now, as Josie approaches her 40th birthday, she has been opening up about love, life and what truly matters — and her reflections have only added fuel to the fire. 

“Connections and relationships are everything,” Josie said softly. “What’s meant to be on your path will be on your path.”

She confirmed she is currently single and fully devoted to her six-year-old son, Reggie. Yet viewers couldn’t help but notice a shift in tone when Stephen’s name came up.

“I’m in love with Stephen Mulhern,” she joked — before adding with a knowing smile, “But story of my life… I don’t think he loves me!”

Sources close to the pair insist their bond has grown stronger than ever, particularly since working together on screen.

“They’ve got incredible chemistry,” one insider said. “It’s easy to see why people believe there’s more going on.”

Josie, who first won the public’s heart as the bubbly Big Brother champion in 2010, has since become one of ITV’s most loved presenters. Now dividing her time between Bath and London, she says she’s content — but open to love, should it find her again.

“If something happens, it happens,” she said. “Right now, I’m happy. I’ve got my son, my work, and honestly — the best time of my life.”

Still, after Stephen’s latest confession about listening to his heart, fans can’t help but wonder: could this long-rumoured friendship finally be turning into something more? 

And with their closeness seemingly growing by the day, the question on everyone’s lips remains — are Stephen and Josie already taking the next step… or even living together? 

One thing is certain: after this, everything feels a little clearer — and a lot more romantic.