The My Kitchen Rules contestant has explained that their on-screen flirtation was a bit of fun, with friendship the only thing brewing between their teams.

Asked whether she shared Simon's interest, Deanne told Chattr: “Oh God, no!”

She said she had made that clear during one of the dinners, telling him: “Simon, you're not my type.” According to Deanne, that exchange did not make the episode.

A Love Heart And A Little Dinner-Table Strategy

The chatter began during Angus and Simon's Instant Restaurant, when Simon appeared flustered around Deanne and added a desiccated coconut heart to her dessert.

Alisha spotted it immediately and teased the possibility of romance. Simon's explanation of his crush only gave viewers more reason to keep watching the pair.

He told New Idea that Deanne had caught his eye and he had tried to charm her, although he was not convinced his efforts had worked.

Deanne has a rather less romantic explanation for playing along. She joked that having the boys on their side at the table might have helped when she and Alisha needed sympathetic scores.

“It was just a bit of fun with him,” she said.

Simon Explains Why It Went No Further

Speaking to TV WEEK, Simon joked that he had been crushing on Deanne and that she had broken his heart, before explaining that she had a partner.

Deanne said she had already told Simon where she stood at the dinner table, even if viewers did not get to see that conversation.

Alisha said she and Deanne loved spending time with the boys, who made them laugh and enjoyed their sense of humour in return. Simon and Angus likewise described getting along well with the women.

The love-heart garnish did not win Simon a date, but both teams came away with a friendship and plenty to laugh about.