Ellie Leach, best known for her role as Faye Windass on “Coronation Street,” captivated audiences with her performances on “Strictly Come Dancing” in 2023. Partnered with professional dancer Vito Coppola, the duo’s chemistry and talent led them to lift the coveted Glitterball trophy that season.
Triumphant Partnership
Ellie and Vito’s partnership became a highlight of the 2023 series. Their routines showcased technical skill and emotional depth, earning them praise from both judges and viewers. Their journey didn’t end with the television series; they continued to dazzle audiences during the “Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour” in early 2024.
Memorable On-Stage Moment
During the live tour, Ellie experienced a memorable moment that she recently revisited. She took an unexpected tumble on stage in a performance at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool. Demonstrating her professionalism, Ellie styled out the fall by gracefully ending up seated on the stairs. Vito promptly checked on her, and they seamlessly continued their routine.
Reflecting on this incident, Ellie shared a clip on Instagram, humorously captioning it: “In light of the Strictly live tour having started this week I would like to take a moment of silence while we remember that this actually happened to me and to this day I am still traumatised by it thank you. Vito always there to save me. The best time ever.”
Ongoing Friendship and Support
The bond between Ellie and Vito remains strong. As the 2025 live tour commenced, Vito partnered with actress Sarah Hadland. However, he had to withdraw from the initial shows in Birmingham due to a back injury. During Vito’s recovery, professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin stepped in to perform with Sarah. Expressing his support, Vito commented on social media: “Guuuuuuuuysssss omg you look both so fresh. The best of luck.”
Ellie’s Continued Passion for Dance
Since her “Strictly” victory, Ellie has embraced new opportunities. She expressed her newfound confidence, stating, “I used to be scared to say yes to things, whereas now I just embrace it, and I’m like, ‘Yeah, why not? What’s the worst that could happen?’” This positive outlook has opened doors for her in various fields, including musical theatre. Ellie shared her excitement, saying, “The surprising one was musical theatre – I never thought I’d be approached to do that, but I have!”
Looking Ahead
Ellie’s journey from the cobbles of Weatherfield to the glitz of the ballroom has been transformative. Her experiences on “Strictly Come Dancing” have showcased her versatility as a performer and highlighted her resilience and ability to connect with audiences. As she continues exploring new career avenues, fans eagerly anticipate her next steps, confident that she will bring the same dedication and passion that made her a standout on the dance floor.
