Strictly's Ellie Leach shares one thing that 'can't be taken away' from her and Vito Coppola

Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola won the latest season of Strictly Come Dancing
-Credit: (Image: PA)


Strictly Come Dancing champion Ellie Leach has spoken about her strong bond with dance partner Vito Coppola. The duo were paired together for their victorious stint on the show last year, which has since been embroiled in controversy following allegations made by Amanda Abbington against her professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice.

Amanda exited the competition early, and Giovanni departed shortly after the actress lodged a complaint about his conduct. The dancer was subsequently investigated by the BBC when it emerged that three celebrities had lodged complaints, but the Italian star has pledged to "clear his name".

In another incident, fellow contestant Zara McDermott voiced her concerns after her partner, Graziano Di Prima "kicked her" during practice. Graziano stated he "deeply regrets" the incident.

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Despite these controversies, Ellie has maintained a close friendship with her partner Vito, as well as fellow professional dancer Dianne Buswell, and her boyfriend Joe Sugg. She revealed her Strictly co-stars have even come to support her in her new stage production, Cluedo 2, where she plays the role of Miss Scarlett.

Speaking to Closer, Ellie said: "It's really lovely having Vito there. He's so supportive, as am I of anything he's done.", reports the Express.

She added: "It's really nice we have built that friendship and bond. It's something that can't ever be taken away."

Ellie and Vito have been openly affectionate towards each other on social media since their time on the show. However, Ellie recently denied speculation that they were romantically involved.

In an Instagram post, she stated: "Love this man dearly. Men and women can be friends and can love each other AS FRIENDS... just sayin x."

She concluded the post by commenting on Vito's "cutest face". Ellie has embarked on a national tour with Cluedo 2, a whodunnit based on the popular board game.

The 23 year old actress admitted to initial nerves about taking on a new project but credited her supportive castmates, who have extensive theatre experience, with helping her through the transition. "Having the live aspect of Strictly, and knowing what it's like to be in front of an audience and having that reaction straight away, probably did help me a little bit."