Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola addresses 'toning down' behaviour after four-word plea

Vito Coppola
-Credit: (Image: GETTY)


Strictly Come Dancing sensation Vito Coppola has revealed that he consciously toned down his vibrant personality when meeting his Celebrity MasterChef co-stars, due to past reactions about his affectionate greetings.

The 31-year-old dancer, known for his warm and enthusiastic nature, became a fan favourite on the BBC dance programme back in 2022 and has since gone on to lift the Glitterball trophy with Ellie Leach.

With their close bond being characterised by frequent hugs and kisses on the cheek as well as declarations of love on social media during the 2023 series, the pair became the centre of romance rumours.

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However, both consistently denied any suggestion of a relationship beyond the dance floor.

Following their victory last year, Vito and Ellie have since maintained a strong friendship, actively supporting each other professionally.

As Vito prepares to return to the Strictly this month, he's also been showcasing his culinary talents on Celebrity MasterChef.

Reflecting on his rapport with fellow contestants, he shared that he moderated his usually effusive self-introductions.

He told Notebook Magazine: "I clicked straight away with everyone but I try not to be too much," reports The Express.

"When I meet someone for the first time, I jump and I hug them and sometimes people are like, 'OK, OK, OK, just give me space'."

Despite the toned-down introduction, Vito expressed joy over the connections he made on the show.

He added: "But we had a beautiful time, but also it's a chance to meet other people and to get along with each other. These people will stay in my life forever."

This Saturday, Strictly fans will finally discover which duos will be battling it out for the Glitterball trophy as part of the special 20th anniversary.

After his triumphant victory last year, it's rumoured that Vito will be paired with another celebrity this series, while his co-star Kai Widdrington reportedly won't be due to a shortage of female participants.

Professionals set to be making a comeback to the dance floor also include; Dianne Buswell, Katya Jones, Johannes Radebe, Gorka Marquez and Karen Hauer.

Among the 15 courageous celebrities taking part are; The Only Way Is Essex's Pete Wicks, ex Arsenal legend Paul Merson, Gladiators star Montell Douglas aka Fire, DIY SOS host Nick Knowles, singer Toyah Willcox, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick and Love Island's Tasha Ghouri.