Ellie Goldstein Reveals Nerves and Highlights the Best of BBC’s Strictly
Ellie Goldstein, who made history as the first dancer with Down syndrome to compete on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, recently shared her experiences on the show. During an interview with her dance partner, Vito Coppola, she expressed her thoughts on the competition and addressed what makes her feel nervous.
Ellie’s Feelings About Strictly Come Dancing
In a conversation with Bella magazine, Ellie revealed that the enthusiasm of the crowd can be overwhelming at times. Once she starts feeling anxious, Vito reassures her, emphasizing that nerves can be a sign of care. “It’s OK to be nervous because that means that we care,” he stated during the interview.
The Best Part of the Experience
Despite her nerves, Ellie finds joy in waking up early and spending quality time with Vito each day. “The best thing about being on Strictly is being with Vito the whole day,” she said. Vito echoed her sentiments, sharing their shared goal of enjoying every moment and returning home with smiles. They even have a warm-up routine where Ellie picks songs, including “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield and the track “Golden” from the 2025 movie KPop Demon Hunters.
Performance Highlights
As the competition progressed, Ellie and Vito showcased their skills in various performances. In week six, during the Halloween special, they danced the tango to Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra.” Their routine drew attention, especially when Ellie humorously pulled Vito from a hat.
- Score: 27 out of 40 points
- Position: Concerns arose regarding their placement on the leaderboard, often referred to as the “death slot.”
Supportive fans praised Vito’s choreography, particularly his adaptability to the height difference between himself and Ellie. Many applauded the teamwork and dedication displayed in their routines.
Pre-Performance Rituals
Before taking the stage, Ellie and Vito have established their own rituals to calm nerves. Ellie shared that if she begins to feel anxious, Vito offers comfort, sometimes even giving her a piggyback ride. The duo also engages in a personalized handshake, with Vito assuring her, “When you are with me, you are safe. I’ve got you.”
As they continue their journey on Strictly Come Dancing, Ellie and Vito remain committed to supporting each other, navigating the challenges of performance, and celebrating their achievements together.
