Strictly Come Dancing has seen countless emotional farewells — but few have touched the audience’s hearts quite like Ellie Goldstein’s.

The model and actress, whose radiant smile and fearless spirit made her one of the most beloved contestants of the 2025 season, was eliminated last Sunday alongside her professional partner Vito Coppola. And while fans flooded social media with messages of love and outrage, one of the most moving tributes came from fellow Strictly star Dianne Buswell.

Through tears, Dianne shared a heartfelt message that left both the Strictly family and viewers deeply moved.

“Ellie is pure sunshine,” Dianne said. “Every single week, she showed what it means to dance with heart. She’s inspired us all — not just because of her talent, but because of her courage. She absolutely deserved to go further.”

Ellie’s journey on Strictly was nothing short of remarkable. As the first contestant with Down’s syndrome to grace the Strictly ballroom, she broke barriers and melted hearts in equal measure. Her partnership with Vito Coppola quickly became one of the highlights of the season — a story of friendship, trust, and pure joy.

When their elimination was announced during the Halloween special, the atmosphere in the studio shifted. The applause was long, the tears real. Even seasoned pros like Dianne, who have witnessed many goodbyes, couldn’t hold back emotion.

“She brought something magical to the show,” Dianne continued. “Her smile, her energy, the way she made everyone feel comfortable — that’s a gift. I don’t think she realises how special she is.”

As Dianne spoke, other dancers and crew members nodded through tears. One production insider later shared that backstage, even the camera operators were emotional. “It wasn’t just a dance show moment — it was a human moment,” they said. “You could feel the love for Ellie.”

Vito Coppola, Ellie’s partner, also poured his heart out on live television:

“I asked for an angel this year — and then she arrived. Ellie changed my life. She made me a better person.”

The pair’s bond captured the hearts of millions. Every time they stepped onto the dance floor, their chemistry was more than choreography — it was connection.

After their elimination, Dianne posted a photo of her hugging Ellie on Instagram with a simple caption:

“You’ve made history, sweetheart. Keep shining, because the world is brighter with you in it.”

Fans immediately flooded the comments.

“I’ve never cried this much watching Strictly,” one wrote.
“Ellie reminded us what real beauty looks like,” said another.
“Thank you, Dianne, for saying what we’re all feeling.”

Even former contestants reached out. Rose Ayling-Ellis, who made history as the first deaf winner of Strictly Come Dancing, shared Dianne’s post, writing:

“Ellie, you’ve inspired a new generation of dancers. You made us all proud.”

For Dianne, whose own career has been defined by positivity and empathy, Ellie’s story clearly struck a deeper chord. “Strictly isn’t just about scores or steps,” she said later in an interview. “It’s about heart. And Ellie has one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever met.”

As the glitter settles and another week begins in the ballroom, Ellie’s presence is still felt — in the rehearsals, in the laughter backstage, and in the warmth she left behind.

She may have left the competition, but as Dianne Buswell so beautifully put it:

“Ellie didn’t lose anything. She gave us everything.”

And perhaps, in the world of Strictly Come Dancing, that’s what truly matters.

Because in the end — when the music fades and the lights dim — what stays isn’t the trophy, but the hearts that were touched along the way.