Kate Wright set to ‘take a break’ from Towie to focus on new ‘business ventures’ after being linked to Rio Ferdinand
KATE Wright has quit Towie, The Sun’s Bizarre column can exclusively reveal.
The reality star, 25, will bow out of the ITVBe show at the end of this series.
Kate told Bizarre: "I am taking a long break from the show to focus on my new business ventures and an exciting bikini range."
A source added: "Kate has been so busy recently and doesn’t have the time to commit to the show.
“She is grateful for everything the show has given her but will now be focusing her attention on launching her new bikini line.
“She knows that the door is always open for her to return.”
The 25-year-old has had a string of secret dates with former Man Utd defender Rio, 38.
The footballer has previously refused to discuss the relationship.
They were first linked in January and sources claim they met up in Dubai last week — though reps later denied this.
Other cast members have previously hit out at the new romance.
Kate was in a relationship with fellow Towie star Dan Edgar for six years before calling time on their romance in 2016.
Earlier this year Dan revealed he still had feelings for Kate, admitting: “It didn’t work out. We’re good friends. I haven’t spoken to her for a few weeks.
“I was with Kate for a long time so I think there will always be feelings there. She has an amazing body.”
A spokesperson for Towie production company Lime Pictures said: "Kate has informed producers that she may take an extended break after filming for this series wraps.
"We fully support this decision and will keep in close contact with Kate so we can mutually decide if and when a return is appropriate. We wish her well in her future projects."
A rep for Kate declined to comment.