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Former Coronation Street actress Denise Welch has shared her experiences on mental health and panic attacks on ITV’s Loose Women as she described the terrifying feeling

Loose Women star Denise Welch has spoken openly regarding her experience of panic attacks and revealed she felt she was “dying”.

The ladies were back for another instalment on Wednesday (August 14) to discuss a range of topics. But during the show, presenter Kaye Adams asked Denise, Brenda Edwards and Frankie Bridge their opinion on disclosing the truth about their health.

The subject arose after a weather reporter in Australia openly shared he was having a panic attack live on air. In an extremely candid reveal, Nate Byrne from ABC News asked his co-host Lisa Millar to step in for him.

He told viewers at the time: “I’m actually going to need to stop for a second,” he said. “Some of you may know that I occasionally get affected by panic attacks and actually that is happening right now.” This then led Kaye to ask her Loose Women co-stars about their experiences and whether they would reveal all.

Denise Welch shared her panic attack experience ( 
Image:
ITV)

Denise who revealed she suffered from panic attacks shared her story and said: “Mine would come completely [unexpectedly] from nowhere. Not even thinking about anything and you would think that you were choking and dying.”

After hearing Denise’s story as well as Australian weather reporter, Nate, fans headed to X formerly known as Twitter to share their thoughts. One viewer said: “I can’t help thinking that having a panic attack on TV could possibly affect your TV career.”

Another said: “#loosewomen I think that the guy with the panic attack did the absolutely right thing by explaining what he was going through. Well done lad.”

The women spoke about opening up on their health
While a third also shared: “Panic attacks are horrific. Wouldn’t wish them on my worst enemy.”

Describing her panic attacks in more detail, Denise added: “My analogy is always you’re driving on the motorway and you nearly have a crash. And your heart is racing manically.

“You pull over to the side, you don’t have a crash and after a few minutes you’ve calmed down. It’s like that but it never goes away.

Loose Women airs weekdays at 12:30pm on ITV1.

Beat the Chasers was back on TV screens with a new episode, where one contestant revealed he had a surprise link to Anne Hegerty and Paul Sinha

Beat the Chasers hit TV screens with a fresh episode on Thursday (20 February), with five contestants taking on the Chasers; Mark Labbett, Shaun Wallace, Anne Hegerty, Paul Sinha, Jenny Ryan, and Darragh Ennis.

In the latest episode of the show, hosted by Bradley Walsh, contestants Jane, Johnny, Chigozie, Michael, and Oliver faced off against the six Chasers, but it was Johnny who stirred up excitement among ITV viewers.

Jonny was the second contestant to appear on Thursday’s Beat the Chasers ( 
Image:
ITV)
Johnny’s response shed light on their past encounter: “We met once before, yes. You’ve hosted a quiz and I didn’t do too well, but I’m here to right some wrongs!”

But the connections didn’t end with Paul as Anne also piped up, recalling that she won 50 pound at the same event. Johnny then cheekily retorted that Anne had been “using her phone” during the quiz, while Bradley threw in his own jest about being Anne’s go-to for quiz answers.

Despite Johnny’s earlier confidence, his journey on Beat the Chasers was cut short. His first question proved to be his downfall, leaving him disappointed as Bradley broke the news that he would be leaving the stage all too soon, reports Bristol Live.

The six Chasers on Beat the Chasers ( 
Image:
ITV)
Viewers at home couldn’t hide their dismay over Johnny’s swift exit. They took to social media to voice their frustrations, criticising the show’s unforgiving rule which resulted in Johnny’s premature departure after missing just one question.

Viewers dashed to X, expressing their opinions on the rule. One dismayed fan posted: “#BeatTheChasers and always #FeelBad #FeelSorry for those who get the first question wrong so easy done though there not easy #BTC.”

Another chimed in with: “That’s ridiculous. Kicked off because he got the first question wrong. I thought earache too. #beatthechasers,” and yet another added, voicing their frustration: “The 1 question rule sucks #beatthechasers.”

Strictly’s Janette Manrara opened up on leaving her daughter as she returns to work

Strictly Come Dancing’s Janette Manrara was quick to admit that she felt ‘scared’ as she gave a candid update about leaving her daughter while returning to work.

The It Takes Two presenter gave birth in July 2023 to her baby girl with husband Aljaz Skorjanec. Away from mum life, the star has been busy with her TV work and now she is making her musical theatre debut in the Chicago UK tour.

Janette will be taking on the role of Roxie Hart in the musical’s nationwide run, performing in over 20 venues across the UK and Ireland. She will follow on from Coronation Street’s Faye Brookes.

Janette Manrara appeared on BBC The One Show and opened up about leaving her daughter ( 
Image:
BBC)
Ahead of the tour, Janette appeared on The One Show alongside hosts Roman Kemp and Alex Jones and the hosts wasted no time quizzing the star on how she feels about leaving her daughter at home while touring.

Roman went on to say: “You and Aljaz just finished the Strictly tour so is he and your daughter Lyra going to be coming down.”

Janette admitted: “That’s what kind of not worries me but scares me a little bit because it’s a long contract and to be away from her. Aljaz is going to come to as many venues and cities as he possibly can, Blackpool being one them.

“We’re going to go back to Blackpool and I’ve been there only with Strictly so it’ll be interesting to go now with Chicago but yeah they’re going to come with me as much as possible and I’m flying home on days off just to cuddle with me as much as I can.” Alex asked: “It’s the balance isn’t it?” To which Janette agreed as she added: “Yeah.”

The couple announced their daughter Lyra Rose’s arrival in a sweet social media post in 2023 ( 
Image:
Janette Manrara/Instagram)
The couple announced their daughter Lyra Rose’s arrival in a sweet social media post featuring a black and white photo showing the family of three for the first time after their bundle of joy arrived in 2023.

At the time the couple’s celebrity friends were quick to take to the comments section to share their support. Ashley Roberts wrote: “Lyra Rose is here!!!” before adding in another post: “So beautiful!!! Love you!!!”

While former Strictly dancer James Jordan said: “So happy for you both. Sending love from the Jordans.” Gemma Atkinson commented: “Just wonderful”, with Gorka Marquez adding: “So gorgeous.”

EastEnders viewers saw Martin Fowler, played by actor James Bye, brutally killed off during the live episode for the 40th anniversary on Thursday night on the BBC soap

Martin Fowler was dramatically killed off on EastEnders on Thursday night during a dramatic live episode.

The character, who has been on the BBC soap for 40 years, was brutally killed off in sad scenes as The Queen Vic collapsed during a fire. After remaining in the building to save his exit Stacey Slater, Martin sadly perished after a metal beam landed on him and crushed him.

Actor James Bye bowed out of the role he’s played for over a decade, taking it on in 2014. He replaced former actor James Alexandrou while the role was originally played by Jon Peyton-Price. Martin had been born on the show in the soap’s first year on air.

Fans had been predicting his shocking death for weeks after a number of clues and nods to the past. But things took a turn when on Wednesday night, he helped rescue his loved ones before staying in the building to save Stacey.

Bizarrely despite being in a burning and collapsing building, Stacey refused to leave until they discussed their feelings for each other. It took a while, but Martin eventually admitted he loved his ex-wife Stacey and not his current partner Ruby Allen.

Martin Fowler was dramatically killed off on EastEnders
But tragedy struck when they finally went to leave only for the beam to fall from the ceiling, with Martin shoving Stacey out the way. It then crushed his legs as he could not get out of the way in time.

As the live episode kicked off on Thursday, Martin was in a very bad way and his death appeared to be on the way. Stacey stayed with Martin and called for help, with the beam pinning him down as he screamed.

As the episode went on Martin suddenly stopped moving, and lost consciousness as Stacey screamed out. He was given morphine for the pain with his breathing erratic, as Stacey vowed to stand by him.

It’s then that Martin told Stacey once more he loved her, also telling her he never wanted to be apart from her ever again – asking her to marry him again. Paramedics warned Stacey that Martin was at risk of crush syndrome, that could cause kidney issues and a cardiac arrest so to prepare herself.

Martin realised something was wrong and gave Stacey a speech in heartbreaking scenes. Just as they managed to free him Martin went into cardiac arrest. Sadly at the end of the episode Martin was killed off in devastating scenes, with Stacey by his side.

James’ final scenes on the show during the live special saw him pass away just as he and Stacey decided to give things another go. Viewers were devastated by the death twist, with the show killing off such an iconic character in such a sad way.

James spoke about his exit after the scenes aired, and said: “Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the shows epic 40th anniversary – the time felt right. It’s an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude. A huge thank you to all the fans of the show – EastEnders wouldn’t be what it is without you – and to the BBC and EastEnders team for trusting me with this role for so many years. This fruit and veg man will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s time to look forward, and I’m incredibly excited for what the future holds. RIP Martin Fowler.”

Comedian Dave Gorman is returning to screens with his series Modern Life is Goodish, yet he has been forced to scrap an entire episode due to Gregg Wallace being in it

A top comedian has revealed he’s been forced to scrap an episode of his new show due to Gregg Wallace appearing in “75% of it”.

Dave Gorman is gearing up for the release of his new series Modern Life is Goodish, however had to make a huge cut to the work already filmed. He had the former MasterChef host take part as a guest, yet the episode is now impossible to air following Gregg’s recent controversies.

Wallace has been accused of inappropriate behaviour while at work and has stepped away from his presenting duties as a result. He has denied the claims made against him and is willing to take part in the investigation. Dave revealed he made four episodes for his show, with one of them heavily featuring Wallace.

It was filmed before allegations surfaced and portrayed Wallace in an affectionate light. In the wake of the scandal, airing the content was no longer viable and so the plug has been pulled on it. Dave revealed: “We made four [episodes], but one of them is 75 percent about Gregg Wallace. It’s in the bin.”

Wallace took part in the episode before the allegations emerged ( 
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He added to The Guardian: “It’s sort of taking the p**s out of him but in a very loving way, tongue in cheek.” The episode’s structure sees Dave create a product that he needs celebrity endorsement for. Dave managed to get Wallace to film a pretend advert for the product, with the comedian admitting pulling Gregg’s appearance out of the episode still wouldn’t have worked.

Modern Life is Goodish aired for five seasons starting in 2013 and ending in 2017. It sees Dave blend stand up comedy and PowerPoint-based presentations as he tackles modern cultural oddities. The show’s revival will go ahead with three episodes later this month.

Wallace stepped down from hosting the BBC cooking show with Jon Torode in November after multiple complaints of inappropriate behaviour on set. The celebrity chef has vehemently denied allegations of inappropriate sexual comments, with his lawyers also strongly denying he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature. Wallace insisted via his legal team: “It is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”

The move followed alleged sexual misconduct allegations from 13 women over 17 years, including Kirsty Wark. Wallace, who fronted the show since 2005, was accused of making “inappropriate sexual jokes”, asking for the number of female production team members and getting undressed “too close” to women on the show.

He also also been accused of ‘groping’ three women in separate incidents. Broadcaster Kirsty Wark, best known for hosting BBC Newsnight, claimed in November that Wallace told “jokes of a sexualised nature” on two occasions during filming. She added that crew and other contestants were present.

Sir Rod Stewart also alleged the TV presenter had “humiliated” his wife, Penny Lancaster, when she was a contestant on Celebrity MasterChef in 2021. He said: “So Greg Wallace gets fired from Masterchef. Good riddance Wallace…You humiliated my wife when she was on the show but you had that bit cut out didn’t you? You’re a tubby, bald-headed, ill-mannered bully. Karma got ya. Sir Rod Stewart.”

The Mirror has contacted Sky TV for comment.

Former This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby’s past came back to haunt her when she was reunited with her first love in front of a live audience and he brought with him a personal letter she wrote

Holly Willoughby has been reunited with her first love as part of Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, and the sweet moment was not without embarrassment for the former This Morning star.

Holly went red as Michael brought her childhood boyfriend Oliver onto the stage and interviewed him in front of the star. She giggled as Michael asked whether Oliver had any memorabilia or keepsakes from their romance, and she squealed “Oh God!” before Oliver replied: “It’s funny you should ask that,” and produced a letter from his pocket.

“Oh my god, what is that?” asked Holly, and Oliver said: “This is pure coincidence but my mother has had this and she sent it to me about six months ago. It’s a letter from you, Holly, to me.” Michael then asked Holly to read the letter aloud to the live audience in the episode to be broadcast on Saturday 22 February.

Holly cringed when the love letter appeared on screen ( 
Image:
BBC/Michael McIntyre’s Big Show S8 – 22-02-2025)
“Dear Oliver, how are you. have good time on holiday and get brown (if you can). I love you hope you love me and what about the photo of the naked lady Hannah was telling me about. Love Holly.” There was also what looked like a lipstick kiss at the bottom of the page.

Reading it out, Holly cringed and said, “this is so embarrassing,” then held her head in her hands. “It looks like I wiped my mouth with it,” she added, referring to the kiss at the end.

It’s not the first time Holly has fallen victim to Michael McIntyre’s sense of humour. In the fourth series of Big Show in 2018, she handed him her phone as part of the ‘Send to All’ segment and he sent an embarrassing text to all her contacts.

The message read: “As you know, I am a global style icon. This Morning are doing a feature where I help people with absolutely no dress sense and I immediately thought of you. What WAS that hideous thing you were wearing last time I saw you? Hope you won’t be offended but could you come in with a few of your outfits for Phil and I to laugh at. In return you’ll get a whole new wardrobe. What do you say? Need to know ASAP. Love Holly xxx”

Oliver was Holly’s first love ( 
Image:
BBC/Michael McIntyre’s Big Show S8 – 22-02-2025)
Among the people who responded were her children’s head teacher, who wrote back: “Yes of course, but I’ll probably be busy with pre-prep assembly. Are my suits really that bad?”

Holly left her presenting job at This Morning in October 2023, following more than 14 years in the role. She recently returned to our TV screens for the new series of Dancing on Ice, and also for the Netflix show Celebrity Bear Hunt, alongside Bear Grylls.

The 44 year old hosts the show in which 12 celebrities try to escape the survival expert who is pursuing them through the Costa Rican jungle. After filming the show, she said: “There were a few moments on this show where I had to dig deep and have a strong word with myself. At those times, it was good to have someone like Bear next to you saying that being brave is about using that fear, harnessing it and doing it anyway.”

Celebrity chef Gregg Wallace had been accused of inappropriately sexual behaviour, jokes and remarks during the making of his television shows by a number of women

Gregg Wallace has been seen for the first time in months following his sexual misconduct investigation.

The former MasterChef host, 60, stepped down from hosting the BBC show with Jon Torode in November after multiple complaints of inappropriate behaviour on set.

The celebrity chef has vehemently denied allegations of inappropriate sexual comments, with his lawyers also strongly denying Gregg engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature. Gregg insisted via his legal team: “It is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”

After months of keeping a low profile, Gregg was spotted out in public for the first time since the investigation into his behaviour on Thursday. In pictures obtained by Mail Online, the former Masterchef star was seen running errands close to his home in Kent. The shamed TV star looked stern and downcast as he was photographed behind the wheel of his car with his hand in front of his face.

Gregg has been seen for the first time since being dropped from MasterChef

The celebrity chef has kept a low profile since the sexual misconduct investigation ( 
Image:
Jam Press/@greggawallace)

Gregg had not been seen in public since November 28. Before choosing to lay low for a while, the celebrity chef took to Instagram to inform his followers that he would be taking a ‘step back’ from social media after his departure from Masterchef due to the allegations made against him. At the time, he told his followers: “I would like to thank all the people for getting in touch, reaching out, and sharing their support. That’s good of you. Thank you very much.”

The TV star said that he was taking a much-needed step back for his own mental health and wellbeing after the stress of the allegations made against him. Earlier this month, Gregg made is comeback to Instagram as he told his fans that he made “a promise” to himself in a cryptic post, three months on from his MasterChef scandal.

Gregg took to social media to share a post about reflection. Posting a photograph of a scenic sky view on a Sunday morning, he wrote: “Sunday can be a time for reflection. Perhaps make ourselves a promise for next week.”

It comes after a statement from the show’s production company Banijay UK siad that Wallace is “committed to fully cooperating throughout the process” during the BBC’s investigation process.

The TV star was dropped from MasterChef in November ( 
Image:
BBC /Shine TV)The statement read: “This week the BBC received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows. Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate.

“While this review is underway, Gregg Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully cooperating throughout the process. Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations regarding behaviour are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with multiple ways of raising concerns, including anonymously, clearly promoted on set.”

It continued: “Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.”

The BBC has said it takes any issues that are raised with it “seriously” after it was announced Wallace will step away from his role on MasterChef while complaints made to the corporation from individuals about historical allegations of misconduct are investigated.

A BBC spokesperson said: “We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them. We are always clear that any behaviour which falls below the standards expected by the BBC will not be tolerated. Where an individual is contracted directly by an external production company we share any complaints or concerns with that company and we will always support them when addressing them.”

Loose Women anchor Jane Moore looked very different to how fans recognise her as she talk to the runway for London Fashion Week alongside a string of celebs

A Loose Women star looked unrecognisable as she made her fashion debut.

Jane Moore, 62, took to the catwalk during the VIN + OMI London Fashion Week on Wednesday, held at the swanky The Other House in Kensington, London. Jane, known for her short blonde hair and no-nonsense attitude turned heads as she rocked a very different look for the occasion.

The broadcaster swapped her very short hair in favour of a new dramatic look as she made her modelling debut. Her blonde tresses were styled into a rather over the top up-do, as though her hair had been electrified as she struck a pose for the cameras. While Jane often chooses to sport a minimal make-up look, this changed for fashion week.

Instead, Jane opted for dramatic heavy eye-make-up with black eyeliner pouring from her peepers. The former news correspondent also choose a dramatic tanned appearance for her catwalk as she rocked an electric blue sleeveless dress as she paraded herself for the bold fashion house.

Jane looked very different during her London Fashion Week debut ( 
Image:
Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

Dame Prue Leith also made an appearance ( 
Image:
PA)
Her look was completed by none-other than a pair of yellow rubber gloves as she channelled her inner Kim Woodburn. Her friend and co-star, Kaye Adams was on hand to offer support to Jane throughout the event. Jane was joined by Great British Bake Off star Dame Prue Leith, who is no stranger to fashion week

Dame Prue, 85, looked radiant for her walk as she slipped into a striking pink gown. Her dress featured bold shoulders and a corseted body before going into a wide bouffant skirt which blew in the gentle breeze as she strutted down the catwalk. Prue’s dress was neatly decorated with black floral patterns as she flashed a smile to onlookers.

The star completed her look with a pair of black sandals and striking dark sunglasses, adding a touch of mystery to her look. It wasn’t just Jane’s hair that saw heads turn as Dame Prue’s iconic grey locks were swept straight up and kept in place with lots of hairspray. Janes outing comes after she opened up about her appearance on ITV’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! last year.

The star was the first celebrity to be voted out of the show. Writing in her column for The Sun, Jane said: “Given that less than 300 people have been invited to take part since the show started in 2002, I felt privileged to be there. No one else understands how physically and mentally challenging it is, nor the intensity of the highs and lows.

“So the bond you share is unique and I know I will remain in touch with all of my 2024 campmates forever.” After exiting the show, reflecting on her time in the jungle Jane explained to hosts Ant and Dec that she had “three jobs” in the camp and “worked like a dog”.

On Thursday’s instalment of Loose Women ITV panelists Kaye Adams, Jane Moore, Nadia Sawalha and Kelly Brook were bringing viewers the latest headlines.

Loose Women host Kaye Adams interrupted the show on Thursday afternoon to deliver some breaking news to viewers.

As she built up tension, she told people watching that the show was launching, which they’d never done before.

She commented: “It is time now to share our exciting news. Something that we have never done before in the history of the show. For the first time ever…. We are very excited to announce the launch of Loose Women the podcast!”

The live audience burst into a round of applause as they cheered while confetti fell from the ceiling. The ITV host detailed that after 25 years on-screen, they were going to be getting even ‘looser’.

Loose Women halt show for breaking news as they announce ‘ITV first’

Kaye said: “We’re launching next month to celebrate International Women’s Day, and we’re going to go even deeper on the issues that matter most to you. As well as giving you the chance to find out what really happens behind the scenes. Which makes me a little bit nervous, I have to say!”

Viewers were told the podcast will have two episodes each week, with two different pairs of the Loose Women stars. Kaye revealed the podcast was inspired by their recent 24-hour talkathon.

She said: “Despite the fact that we all know each other quite well, we started to have really different conversations, deeper conversations, because we had the time!”

Loose Women are launching a podcast
Agreeing, Nadia highlighted how limited they are for time on air, whereas this will be different. She said: “I’m just so excited, also with the tour, don’t forget, we had so much fun with that.”

Nadia confessed she finds backstage and behind-the-scenes stuff on other shows interesting as she emphasised her enthusiasm. She continued: “You’re going to be able to watch the podcast on ITVX too. Up until I started doing my own podcast, I’ll be honest, I didn’t even know what a podcast was!”

Kaye joked she was “nervous” about the podcast which will launch in MarchGiving more information, Jane informed people they will be able to ask the Loose Women panel anything they want by sending in questions. Nadia shared: “Over the years, we’ve always leave the stage and we just chat on and on!”

The panel told people they’d be able to listen to the podcast on the go. She said: “Whether you’re on a walk, cooking in the kitchen or whatever, it’s a different pace. You do tend to just talk in a different way, and probably say things where you think, ‘Should I really have said that?’ I think there will be a lot of that on the Loose Women podcast!”

Nadia joked: “It’s taken 25 years for them (the bosses) to have the courage to let us do it!”

The former Corrie star has revealed she’s clearing out her closet ready for new clothes for an upcoming summer holiday, and fans can get their hands on some bargains

An actress who shot to fame on the cobbles of Coronation Street, and who lifted the Strictly Glitterball Trophy, says she’s unemployed but not letting it stop her go on holiday, and is flogging clothes on Vinted from as low as £4.

In the UK 13.4% of the working population are self-employed and anyone who has ever worked in television knows what a fickle beast she can be. Now, a former ITV soap star has revealed she’s trying to earn some cash by selling her clobber on a secondhand marketplace platform and it seems fans might be able to get themselves a bargain or two.

Ellie Leach, 23, played Faye Windass in Coronation Street for 12 years but left in 2023 when show bosses told her they could “see no future for the character”. Her final storyline saw her leaving Weatherfield with her ex-boyfriend Jackson and their daughter Miley after breaking the heart of her fiancé Craig Tinker.

Ellie played Faye Windass for 12 years on Corrie
During her time in the soap Ellie’s character Faye battled some huge storylines, including a teen pregnancy, early menopause and her adoption storyline. Giving fans an insight into what she’s up to, Ellie recently took to social media to say that she was heading on an overseas trips but was “unemployed”.

She wrote: “Working lunch (we are booking a holiday.)” Sharing a photo of her pal, she then added “she’s a student and I’m unemployed.” The Mancunian also told her followers: “Selling some bits on my Vinted if anyone fancied having a look. This picture has no relevance. I just looked cute in the Avanti West Coast toilets.”

Among the bargains to be had were a pair of black PLT heels for £8 and a green Little Mistress bodycon dress for £15. And it seems Ellie is open to offers too, welcoming shoppers to try their luck with lower bids. The 23-year-old revealed in December that her role as Miss Scarlett in the touring production of Cluedo 2 came to an end and she was on the hunt for a new challenge, adding in January that she was still on the lookout.

There are a couple of cute dresses on offer ( 
Image:
Vinted)
Ellie has previously spoken out about the “very hard” struggles of growing up with soap fame. Speaking in 2023, she said: “It’s very scary, don’t get me wrong, I’ve met some amazing people through this job. I would never have had the opportunities that I’ve had if it weren’t for Coronation Street. But it’s hard, being young.”

After leaving Corrie, Ellie took part in BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and was paired with Vito Coppola. The duo were hailed as the best duo in the 2023 competition and ultimately won the series. Ellie and Vito triumphed in the dance contest, outperforming competitors such as EastEnders’ Bobby Brazier and Bad Education’s Layton Williams.

Their flawless American Smooth earned them their first perfect score of 40 in the series. Although their chemistry sparked speculation of a love affair among fans and on social media, both categorically denied any romantic ties. Reflecting on their journey, Ellie shared the profound impact the show had on her, stating: “The days after were very emotional.

“My time at Strictly was life-changing, and to have the bond and friendship I made with Vito was amazing. It’s the sort of friendship I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. I’m very lucky and grateful for the experience.”

Despite both getting matching bee tattoos, Ellie and Vito insist they are merely good friends. “From the moment we met, we just clicked,” she said, sharing that she now regards Vito as an extended family member and that they “message every day.”