Ellie Goldstein leaves Strictly but says ‘I enjoyed it so much!’
Week five dance off sees the model with Downs Syndrome voted off the show
Ellie Goldstein made history when she became the first contestant on Strictly Come Dancing who has Down’s syndrome. The 23-year-old is no stranger to ‘firsts’. She was the first model with Down’s syndrome to appear on the cover of British Vogue, and she partnered with Mattel to launch a Barbie doll with the condition.
However she was not the first to get voted off the series – far from it. From their Cha-Cha-Cha in week one, to the Waltz in week two (Your Song by Ellie Goulding) right through to the Tango in week five to Lady Gaga’s Abracadabra, they received ever higher praise and scores, showing improvement and increased confidence.
But Sunday night saw her placed in the bottom tow and at the emd of the dance off the judges chose in favour of Eastenders actress Balvinder Sopal and her dance partner Julian Caillon.
In announcing her participation in Strictly earlier this year Ellie said: “I’m absolutely over the moon … I know it’s going to be challenging, but I’m ready … to make some magic on that dancefloor.”
And she certainly did. Together with professional dance partner Vito Coppola theirs was a fresh and inclusive partnership, and although some viewers worried she appeared “upset” or emotional after her first performance, she clarified that her watery eyes were not because she was upset but simply the result of a long day and high emotion.
During her time on the show, the pair were referred to by many fans and commentators as “Team Cheeky” and praised for bringing joy, representation and emotion to the ballroom.
Head-judge Shirley Ballas said that Ellie had been “outstanding throughout the whole competition”. But the most memorable words came from a visibly moved Vito, who told her: “You made me such a better person … you’re my little sister forever.”
Ellie responded: “I’ve enjoyed it so much! He is a kind person and all I wanted from day one. You have been so heart-warming.”
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