19 January 2024 , 10:09
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Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola have finally confirmed their relationship status.
The Coronation Street actress and professional dancer sent fans into a frenzy with their intense connection on the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Ellie and Vito sparked romance rumours after a string of sizzling dances and how they gushed about each other off the dancefloor.
The dance partners had a tendency to be "touchy-feely" and ultimately went on to win the BBC dance competition. Earlier this month Ellie and Vito reunited and were seen cuddling backstage in clips posted on social media. Both are single as Ellie called it quits with her boyfriend back in May while Vito is also said to be back on the market after reportedly enjoying a string of dates with ex-Strictly star Helen Skelton last year.
Strictly Come Dancing winners Ellie and Vito sparked months of romance rumours (PA)Ahead of the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour, Ellie and Vito both finally confirmed what the status of their relationship is exclusively to The Mirror. Vito said: "We have a great relationship and honestly when you just find people, not just me and Ellie but their family which I love. 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."
Ellie added: "And the dogs, yes Rufus!" Vito continued: "We are going no where, don't worry I am going to annoy you every single day, every week and every single year." When asked by The Mirror if they mean as friends, Ellie replied: "Yes," as Vito added: "Yes as good friends."
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Ellie and Vito are heading on the Strictly Come Dancing tour (Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images)
They were seen cuddling up together backstage (Instagram/ @vitocoppola)After winning the series, Ellie paid tribute to her dance partner and friend Vito. She said: "Words cannot describe how I am feeling right now and I cannot believe we have just won Strictly Come Dancing 2023. It’s been a life-changing opportunity and I’ve had the time of my life dancing with Vito every week.
“It has been so special and to be able to do it with such a great teacher has made it an experience I will never forget. Thank you so much for that, Vito, and thank you for finding the dancer in me. We couldn’t have won without the voting public, so a huge thank you to everyone at home who picked up the phone for us, we appreciate every single one of you!
“Finally, a big congratulations to all the finalists and all the 2023 cast, who are incredible and came alongside this journey with me.” Vito also had a few gushing words to say about Ellie. He said: "This is unbelievable, thank you so much to everyone who voted for us, we love you and it means the world to us!
“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! Thank you for being the best dance partner and thank you to everyone who has supported us each week and voted for us!"