On a dazzling Saturday evening, Strictly Come Dancing audiences were swept away by the breathtaking performance of Ellie Goldstein and her professional partner, Vito Coppola. Their butterfly-inspired Waltz was a moment of pure magic, earning them a solid 23 points and a respectable ninth place on the leaderboard. Meanwhile, Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe stole the top spot, riding high after Johannes’ recent career revelation. But it was Ellie and Vito’s heartfelt performance that left an indelible mark on viewers, with a hidden moment that spoke volumes about their extraordinary journey.
During Tuesday’s It Takes Two, hosted by the ever-charming Janette Manrara, the duo opened up about their unforgettable Waltz, which Janette described as “beautiful.” She playfully asked Ellie, “You started on your own again on the stairs—did you have any butterflies in your stomach?” With a radiant smile, Ellie admitted, “I had nerves at first, but they were coming down. The Waltz was a good dance, it was a great dance by Vito.” The model, who described the routine as “graceful and refined,” revealed she felt a quiet wave of emotion during the performance, though she kept her composure like a true professional.
But the real story behind their choreography emerged when Vito shared a touching detail that had been carefully concealed from the audience. He explained that the staircase moment, where Ellie descended alone to meet him on the dancefloor, was no random flourish—it was a deliberate challenge. “Ellie was a little bit afraid of getting down from the stairs on her own,” Vito revealed, his voice brimming with pride. “I said, ‘That’s why we’re going to set this challenge. You’re going to come down on your own, and we’re going to meet in the middle of the floor.’ I was so, so proud.”
That moment, as Ellie twirled across the floor, was nothing short of transformative. “The moment you were spinning around, I thought, ‘Oh, she’s going to fly now like a butterfly,’” Vito added, his words painting a vivid picture of Ellie’s triumph over her fears. The staircase wasn’t just a prop—it was a symbol of their shared journey, a testament to Ellie’s courage and Vito’s unwavering belief in her.
Ellie also shared a deeply personal motivation for her performance: her sister, who was watching from the audience during the live broadcast. “Before the dance, you said to me, ‘I want to make my sister proud tonight,’” Vito recalled. “I’m sure you did.” Janette, visibly moved, confessed, “I had tears in my eyes watching you two, it was so beautiful.”
Ellie’s performance wasn’t just a dance—it was a powerful statement. As a model and advocate, she’s breaking barriers and defying expectations, proving that passion and perseverance can outshine any prejudice. Her chemistry with Vito, paired with their innovative choreography, has made them a fan favorite, and their story is only just beginning.
This weekend, the dynamic duo is set to light up Strictly Come Dancing’s Movie Week with a vibrant Samba to Dua Lipa’s Dance the Night from the Barbie film. If their Waltz was any indication, Ellie and Vito are ready to bring the house down with their infectious energy and undeniable heart. So, get ready, Strictly fans—Ellie Goldstein is here to soar, and her secret weapon? A courage that shines brighter than any spotlight.