Strictly’s Ellie Goldstein reveals why she looked ‘upset’ backstage after live launch

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Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Goldstein has addressed why she appeared to be distressed after dancing on the first BBC One live show this year.

The 23-year-old disability activist and model is partnered with professional dance partner Vito Coppola on this series of the show.

The pair received 17 points for their Cha-Cha routine set to an Ariana Grande song on Saturday, finishing near the bottom of the Strictly leaderboard.

As host Claudia Winkleman was questioning other stars on the balcony, Ellie was seen in the background being comforted by professional dancers Dianne Buswell and Karen Hauer as well as fellow contestant Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.

The moment prompted Strictly fans to share their concern that Ellie was upset, which she addressed on the latest episode of the spin-off show It Takes Two.

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The X Factor alum and show host Fleur East asked: ‘Now Ellie, a few people online thought you looked upset on Saturday but backstage you told me you had a great night. Did you enjoy it?’

EMBARGOED TO 2125 SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27 For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only BBC handout photo of Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola during the dress rehearsal for Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing show on BBC1. Picture date: Saturday November 27, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption.
Ellie Goldstein has been paired with Vito Coppola for 2025 (Picture: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)
For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only BBC handout photo of Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola during their appearance on the live show of Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing show on BBC1. Picture date: Saturday September 27, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption.
The pair received 17 points for their first routine (Picture: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)

Sitting on the studio sofa alongside partner Vito, Ellie said she did before adding: ‘I was not upset at all – I was absolutely fine and it was a great night with him. It was the best night ever.’

Ellie went on to thank her social media followers for their support, saying: ‘Thank you for the comments. They are really kind. Be confident, be in your element and be happy.’

Ellie took to social media yesterday to reassure fans after the live show, writing: ‘Thank you all so much for the incredible love and support! 

‘I’m over the moon that so many of you enjoyed watching me dance last night – I’m honestly having the time of my life. This really is a dream come true.

She added: ‘Just a little note: sometimes my eyes get watery after a long day – I promise I’m not upset! I’m doing so well and feeling SO happy, and your concern truly means the world.’

RETRANSMITTING CORRECTING PICTURE DATE EMBARGOED TO 2125 SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27 For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only BBC handout photo of Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola during the dress rehearsal for Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing show on BBC1. Picture date: Saturday September 27, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption.
After their Cha-Cha, viewers thought Ellie might be upset (Picture: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)

The dancing pair also told Fleur that they’re set to perform the waltz in the second week of the competition.

Ellie made history in 2023 as the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue.

She said about joining the Strictly cast: ‘It’s a show I’ve loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream.

‘I know it’s going to be challenging, but I’m ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dancefloor. Let the Strictly journey begin!’

Vito has a stunning record on Strictly, finishing as a runner-up twice and a winner once. In fact, he won the competition with another dancer named Ellie, so the omens are good.

Strictly Come Dancing returns on BBC One on Saturday.

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