Strictly Come Dancing has proven over the years that it’s no stranger to a bit of scandal, at times appearing more like a dating show than a dance competition.
The infamous “Strictly curse” has seen various contestants split from their partners after appearing on the show, with several romances blossoming between the celebs and professional dancers, and 2023 was no exception.
This year’s Strictly winners, professional dancer Vito Coppola and Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach, have been the subject of wild dating rumours this series, with the pair sharing heartfelt messages to each other on Instagram.
“I am so proud of you and you know how much I believe in you so just keep going and keep working hard as you are already doing every day,” Vito wrote to Ellie on Instagram early in December.
“You are doing great, baby,” he added.
Sadly, despite optimistic shipping from fans, it seems that the pair’s successful partnership has not translated into a romantic relationship.
When asked about dating rumours by the press ahead of the final, Vito explained that the two were so busy, they only had time for rehearsals and rest.
“We’re so into the rehearsals all day, we have so many things to think about, and choreography, and lifts, up, down, left, right,” he explained.
“And after we finish we have the time to eat fast enough, and then we nap a little bit because we need the energy to continue the rehearsals. After, we go home, and we just say, ‘Let’s make sure we eat and go to sleep’, because the next day we have to be back again, so we really are so focused on this beautiful experience.”
He added that Ellie had been “my winner since day one”.
After the pair took home the Strictly trophy, Ellie dedicated the win to Vito, while he explained that Ellie is “amazing” and “represents Strictly”.
The fan-favourites’ win represents a record for the dance competition, with 22-year-old Ellie officially the youngest person to ever win Strictly.
Reacting to their win, Ellie said she “genuinely cannot believe this”, adding that it was the first time she had seen Vito cry.
“For once, he’s crying more than me,” she joked, before turning to him and adding “this is for you”.
Congratulations Vito and Ellie!
You Might Also Like