Strictly Come Dancing 2025 star Ellie Goldstein, 23, has been inundated with support following last night’s first live show of the series.
Saturday night (September 27) saw all 15 celebrities take to the ballroom floor. Ellie and her professional partner Vito Coppola performed a cha cha cha and were awarded 17 points by the judges.
And, while Ellie looked like she thoroughly enjoyed the performance, some were concerned that the excitement of the live show may have been a bit much for the youngster.
Concerns for Strictly star Ellie Goldstein
Ellie is the first-ever person with Down’s syndrome to compete on the full series of Strictly Come Dancing. She’s partnered with Vito Coppola, and the pair appear to have formed a tight bond already.
They performed their cha cha cha early on in the live show and spent the rest of the night upstairs with host Claudia Winkleman. However, at one point, Ellie could be seen sitting down, as a number of pro dancers rallied round.
As Claudia spoke to La Voix and Aljaz Skorjanec after their blunder-hit dance, Ellie was seen sitting down. Karen Hauer then leant in to speak to Ellie, while holding her hand and kissing her on the head.
Pregnant Dianne Buswell held Ellie’s other hand, as her partner Vito leant in and whispered in Ellie’s ear. The moment sparked concern for Ellie among those watching at home – although she was back to her usual smiley self at the end of the two-and-a-half-hour live show as she performed the iconic “keep dancing” sign-off with Vito.
Predictions Ellie will ‘drop out early’
“Concerned about Ellie on #Strictly, She looked uncomfortable at times,” said one. Another added: “Is Ellie okay? Sending love.” “Is Ellie okay? She’s got Karen holding her,” another commented.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Ellie drops out quite early on. She seemed extremely distressed tonight upstairs and it was not nice to see. Hope she’s okay,” another commented.
“I really hope Ellie is okay. She looked upset and distressed in the background earlier,” another added. “I’m also concerned that Ellie obviously needs so much support from the other dancers #Strictly. Uncomfortable to watch,” another concerned viewer said.
“Is Ellie okay? She looks tired and overwhelmed with all the studio standing around. Hope she’s alright!” another posted. “What’s going on with Ellie there. Did anyone see that. She looked sad,” another concerned viewer said.
‘Vito is always so caring’
However, others think Ellie is in perfect hands with pro Vito. “Vito knows how to look after Ellie. Always so caring,” said one.
“Truly adorable. He realised immediately when all of that screaming and shrieking started how much that it affected Ellie and was able to reassure her,” said another.
“Vito is an absolute legend, his empathy in the way he supports his partners is outstanding. This year @Vito__Coppola once again already bringing out the very best of Ellie,” another declared.
Ellie breaks her silence after her big night
However, this morning (September 28), Ellie was up bright and early and posting on her socials.
On Instagram, she shared a Story and said: “I’m SO grateful to every single one of you for being here, learning and supporting this journey. Your encouragement means the world.”
Ellie’s reps have been contacted for comment.
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Strictly Come Dancing returns next Saturday night (October 4) at 6.20pm on BBC One.