Strictly Come Dancing champions Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola have finally addressed rumours regarding their relationship status.
Former Coronation Street star Ellie and Italian professional dancer Vito stormed to victory last year on the hit BBC show. They cha cha cha’d their way into the public’s hearts, beating out EastEnders star Bobby Brazier and Bad Education star Layton Williams to the glitterball trophy.
However, during the course of their time on the show, the pair would sparked rumours of an off-screen romance as the pair regularly gushed over each other. Italian stallion Vito even got as far as to meet Ellie’s family during the filming of the competition, and he seemed to fit right in.
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As well as this, Ellie and Vito left no holes barred during their performances and were often analysed as they got “touchy-feely” in their routines. Their passion in the likes of of the Argentine tango and pasa doble led many viewers to think there was more chemistry than meets the eye.
(Image: BBC)
Now, Vito and Ellie have broken their silence on the issues and made it clear once and for all. Whilst the pair got incredibly close during their dance routines, there is no romantic feelings between the duo, providing heart-breaking news for fans.
Speaking ahead of the Strictly Live tour that will journey up and down the country, Ellie and Vito confirmed the news. “We have a great relationship and honestly when you just find people, not just me and Ellie but their family which I love,” Vito explained to the Mirror.
“You just find these people that you think are going to stay in my life forever, in each others lives forever. And all the family and the dogs.”
(Image: PA)
He continued: “We are going nowhere, don’t worry I am going to annoy you every single day, every week and every single year.” As the newspaper asked if they would be doing so as friends, Ellie responded: “Yes,” with Vito adding: “Yes, as good friends.”
Ellie has been a firm backer of Vito since she left the dance world behind. Reflecting on her time on the show, the former Corrie actress paid tribute to Coppola, saying that “he changed [her] life”, and thanked him for bein “such a great teacher”.
As well as this, she thanked him “for finding the dancer in me”, as well as the voting public for deciding to put them through each week. Vito equally gushed over his partner, calling her his affectionate nickname Lulu.
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Following the couple’s win, he took to Instagram to write: “Ellie, my Lulu, I am so, so proud of you. I have seen how hard you have worked, the dedication and determination you have shown, and how much you have grown as a person these past three months.
“We’ve had the best time dancing together and I’ve enjoyed every second of it!” he continued. “Thank you for being the best dance partner and thank you to everyone who has supported us each week and voted for us!”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
