BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Ellie Leach says 'what a wild ride' as she prepares to leave Vito Coppola after months together

Ellie Leach is preparing to say her goodbyes to Vito Coppola after spending months together as part of Strictly Come Dancing. The former Coronation Street actress, 22, was partnered up with the Italian dancer, 31, during the latest series of the BBC dance contest, which they went on to win.

As well as wowing the judges and viewers during their time on the programme, the pair sparked romance rumours due to their close bond. But both Ellie and Vito have since clarified that despite their love for each other, they are just 'good friends'.

Vito told the Mirror: "We have a great relationship and honestly when you just find people, not just me and Ellie, but their family which I love." When asked to clarify if they mean as friends, Ellie replied: "Yes," as Vito added: "Yes as good friends."

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Since taking home the Glitterball trophy, the couple have gone on to spend even more time together as part of the Strictly Come Dancing live tour. The pair are taking part in live shows across the country alongside fellow 2023 finalists Layton Williams and his dance partner Nikita Kuzmin, and Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell.

But with the live shows coming to an end very soon, Ellie is now preparing to say farewell to her beloved dance partner. Taking to Instagram on Saturday (February 10), the actress shared a picture hugging Vito tightly ahead of one of the final live shows.

The pair both beamed next to each other as they stood in their dressing gowns ahead of a show at the O2, with Ellie telling her 423,000 followers: "2 more days left with my @vitocoppola. What a wild ride we’ve had, thank you for all the love. O2, let’s party."

And fans were full