Strictly Come Dancing Sparks Concern as Viewers Question Contestant’s Wellbeing
Strictly come Dancing returned to screens with its first live show of 2025, but the debut was accompanied by a wave of concern from BBC viewers regarding contestant Ellie Goldstein. The show, which introduced its star-studded line-up in a pre-recorded launch show, saw Goldstein and professional partner Vito Coppola perform the Cha, Cha, Cha to Ariana Grande’s “Yes, And?”
Following their performance and scores reveal with host Claudia Winkleman on the balcony, social media lit up with messages expressing worry for the 23-year-old. Ellie is Strictly’s first contestant with Down syndrome.
Several viewers noted Goldstein appeared overwhelmed. One fan posted: “I hope Ellie is okay, she looks so overstimulated.” another commented, “Ellie looked quite uncomfortable just now, but was impressed by how caring and comforting the Strictly dancers were being with her. that’s fantastic to see.” Others echoed this sentiment, observing dancers Harry and Karen offering comfort, and expressing discomfort at the level of support Goldstein appeared to require.
“I’m also concerned that Ellie obviously needs so much support from the other dancers #Strictly. Uncomfortable to watch,” one viewer wrote. A further comment questioned the inclusivity of the competition, stating: “I’m all for diversity and inclusivity, but not when it’s clearly going to be detrimental to the person concerned. Seeing Ellie this upset is so distressing.”
Though, many viewers also praised the partnership between Goldstein and Coppola. “I absolutely love Ellie and Vito as a partnership-they have great energy, and they are very supportive and caring,” one fan shared. Another predicted, “I feel like Ellie and Vito are going to be the ones to watch this year. Vito is a very kind and patient pro and I like how he’s made his Choreo/ training visual for Ellie so she can understand what to do. A really wholesome partnership with great potential.”
During the judges’ feedback, motsi Mabuse said Ellie’s dance lifted her mood, but advised the model to keep her feet on the floor to get “stronger.” Head judge Shirley Ballas highlighted timing issues but praised Ellie’s “body rhythm,” presenting her with a fan emblazoned with the word “fabulous.” The pair received scores of four from Shirley ballas, motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood, with Anton Du Beke awarding a five.
