TOWIE's Joe Blackman has made it crystal clear on and off the series that he pays no attention to outside noise; if he wants to get with ex's (former) bestie and hard launch/flaunt that new relationship on a reality show and social media he jolly well will. In fact, he has been doing - relentlessly so. Joe and Junaid's budding relationship was easily the biggest storyline of series 34 and it had us hooked for weeks. Sorry, Dan and Ella.
Love him or hate him for it (but don't hate him, it's a reality telly show, babes - it's not that deep) his actions and outbursts have made for some hella good drama. And he hasn't reigned it in now the series has come to an end.
Earlier this week, Joe took part in a treasured TOWIE pastime – an Instagram Q&A with his followers. Naturally, a fair few fans had questions about the upcoming Christmas special and whether him and Junaid Ahmed will be 'together' for it (ICYMI - the latest series ended on a teaser making it clear that Joe and Junaid had split, despite the fact that in the here and now on social media they're very much together). Anyway, one fan said, 'Let's hope that no Grinches will ruin the Christmas spirit whilst filming 😭😭😭'.
Naturally, Joe couldn't help but take the opportunity to throw some festive – and frosty shade – at his fellow cast members (many of whom aren't too pleased with him and Junaid right now), and while he doesn't name names, he doesn't really need to if you're up to date on your TOWIE dramz, let's be honest.
Joe responded, 'Hahahahahaha surely you've watched the show and seen who's on it right 🤣🤣.'
Insert Drag Race shade rattle sound effect with Christmas bells to make it more festive...
We should've asked him why the heck TOWIE bosses included that weird af teaser trailer at the end of the finale because the boys have made it crystal clear that in November 2024 they are one hundred percent seeing each other. So what's with the staged break-up? Come on, there's no chance any of those 'shocked' phone call scenes were legit.
Junaid even clarified things in a recent podcast appearance; he opened up about his romance with Joe while appearing on the Sisters in the City podcast, which is hosted by Love Island legend Anna Vakili and her sister Mandi.
‘Do you know what? We are just really enjoying each other’s company. It’s just lovely, it’s refreshing,’ he told the sisters.
‘I’d say [it’s been] about three or four months. [We see each other] most days.’
And it seems marriage could even be on the cards after a psychic told Junaid and Joe that they are ‘soulmates’.
‘I’ve always, always said I’d love to get married. I’ve always wanted an Asian wedding and an English wedding, I’ve always wanted that,’ Junaid said.
We love this for Junaid and Joe, but seriously, didn't we just watch their break-up on the telly?
WATCH: Here are even more TOWIE stars who aren't originally from Essex including an OG cast member 😱
Ben Pulsford is a digital writer for Bauer Media, writing for both Closer online and heatworld. When he's not getting paid to gossip about Big Brother, Love Island and The Real Housewives of Cheshire, he's storming the London LGBTQ+ scene as drag queen, Beary Poppins. Both Ben and Beary are awaiting an invite to join The Real Housewives of Cheshire for series 18. The budget's not there, but the drama is 💅.