Image Source: The Irish Sun
Maura Higgins is enjoying a major breakthrough in the United States, but people close to the Irish television personality are reportedly worried that her relentless schedule could leave her exhausted.
The former Love Island star, 35, has been balancing a demanding season of the US version of Dancing With The Stars with high-profile fashion appearances, television opportunities and her growing career in America. According to The Irish Sun, friends fear she may be taking on too much at once.
Maura Higgins faces growing concerns during DWTS
Maura recently attended the star-studded Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in a striking white latex outfit. When asked about the ensemble, she joked that she could not breathe and said her ribs were “currently broken”. The comment was delivered humorously, but it added to concerns about the physical pressure surrounding her busy lifestyle.
Those concerns intensified after an injury scare during rehearsals for Dancing With The Stars. Maura is partnered with professional dancer Mark Ballas, the son of Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas.
During practice for a Tango routine set to Rihanna’s Only Girl (In The World), Maura was seen wincing and grabbing the left side of her neck. She told cameras that she had been experiencing a “twinge” which felt as though it was getting worse.
At one stage, the reality star collapsed to the floor in pain. She admitted that she was worried the problem could affect her live performance, saying she did not want anything to happen on stage and ruin the night.
Friends fear the star is pushing herself too hard
A source quoted by The Irish Sun said Maura was living her best life and that everyone was proud of her achievements. However, the insider claimed there was concern that she was trying to do too much and did not need to push herself to breaking point to prove her ability.
Although Maura has returned to rehearsals, those close to her reportedly want her to give herself enough time to recover. The source said her determination was one of her greatest strengths, but added that people around her sometimes worried she did not know when to stop.
- Maura is competing on the current season of Dancing With The Stars.
- She is partnered with professional dancer Mark Ballas.
- The star recently reported worsening discomfort in her neck.
- Friends are urging her to put her health and recovery first.
A long-awaited American breakthrough
The dance competition is particularly meaningful for Maura, who previously revealed that she had turned down the opportunity to appear on the UK’s Strictly Come Dancing because she had always hoped to join its American counterpart.
She described appearing on Dancing With The Stars as something she had been visualising for years. Now that the opportunity has arrived, she is determined to make the most of it.
Since finding fame on Love Island in 2019, Maura has developed into a presenter, model and reality television figure. Her recent appearance on the US series The Traitors helped introduce her to a wider American audience. She has also been linked to the rebooted US version of Blind Date and has appeared at major fashion events, including Sports Illustrated’s Miami Swim Week activities.
Television insiders have even suggested that Maura could become a Kardashian-style household name in the United States. Her profile is growing quickly, but the pressure to remain visible and camera-ready has also brought increased scrutiny.
Past fitness concerns resurface
Maura has previously spoken openly about her relationship with exercise and body image. In 2021, she revealed that an intense focus on fitness had caused her to lose a significant amount of weight and miss her period for four months.
She said at the time that she had become “so thin” and was concerned about the possible effect on her future plans to have children. More recently, she told a social media follower that Pilates, yoga, balance and consistency had contributed to her toned physique.
The star has also faced cruel comments about her appearance. When one social media user suggested that she needed a cheeseburger, Mark Ballas defended her, responding that such comments would not be accepted.
Maura has said she is accustomed to criticism about her body, including remarks that she is too skinny. She has also been candid about cosmetic treatments, saying she has Botox periodically and had lip filler several years ago.
For now, Maura’s American career continues to gather momentum. Her friends and family are reportedly keen to see her enjoy the success she has worked hard to achieve, while remembering that rest and recovery are essential to sustaining it.
Frequently asked questions
Why are people concerned about Maura Higgins?
People close to Maura are reportedly concerned that she is taking on too many professional commitments while competing on Dancing With The Stars.
What happened to Maura Higgins during rehearsals?
Maura experienced worsening discomfort in the left side of her neck and was seen collapsing in pain during a rehearsal session.
Who is Maura Higgins partnered with on DWTS?
Maura is partnered with professional dancer Mark Ballas, whose mother is judge Shirley Ballas.
What other US projects has Maura Higgins pursued?
Her growing American profile includes an appearance on The Traitors, fashion work and a reported presenting role on the rebooted Blind Date.
