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Ellie Goldstein, the groundbreaking Down syndrome model who made history as the first person with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue, has joined the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026 alongside her professional dance partner Vito Coppola. The announcement came in December 2025, adding another milestone to Goldstein’s trailblazing career.
Quick Facts
- Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola confirmed for Strictly Live Tour 2026
- Tour runs January 23 to February 15, 2026 across UK arenas
- Eight celebrity couples competing with judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood
- Goldstein made Vogue history in 2023 as first Down syndrome cover model
From Strictly Series 23 to the Live Arena Stage
Ellie Goldstein first captured audiences’ hearts when she competed on Strictly Come Dancing Series 23 alongside Vito Coppola. Their partnership proved so compelling that the BBC and tour organizers selected them for the 2026 Live Tour, which brings the glitz and spectacle of the beloved dance competition to arena venues across the UK. Goldstein’s presence on the tour marks a significant moment for disability representation in mainstream entertainment, continuing her mission to challenge perceptions and inspire others.
Speaking about her tour inclusion, Goldstein said: “It was a dream come true to be part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. And now, I’m over the moon to continue my dancing journey on the Strictly Live arena tour with my ‘Cheeky Team’ partner, Vito! I can’t wait to see you all on the dancefloor!”
Down syndrome model Ellie Goldstein joins Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026
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The 2026 Tour: Dates, Venues, and Audience Power
The Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026 opens at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena on January 23 for the first of 30 shows running through February 15. The tour will travel to major UK entertainment hubs including Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield, Liverpool, Glasgow, Nottingham, and London’s O2 Arena. The tour features eight celebrity couples dancing to live music and choreography that mirrors the television series’ signature style.
A unique element of the live experience gives audiences direct voting power. While judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood provide their scores and feedback at each show, spectators ultimately decide the winner by text vote—crowning the evening’s Glitterball Trophy holder. Tour host Janette Manrara guides audiences through the spectacular performances.
A Career-Defining Journey for Disability Representation
Ellie Goldstein’s rise in modeling and entertainment has redefined industry standards. In 2023, she became the first model with Down syndrome to appear on the cover of British Vogue, a watershed moment that sparked conversations about inclusion in fashion and media. Since then, she has appeared in major advertising campaigns for brands including Gucci Beauty and Adidas, and has taken acting roles in productions like Malory Towers. Her Strictly Come Dancing journey—both on the television series and now on the live tour—extends her platform as an advocate for disability visibility and representation in entertainment.
Sources
- West End Best Friend — announcement of Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola joining 2026 tour, tour dates and venues, Ellie’s quote
- BBC — Ellie Goldstein’s Strictly appearance and her history as first Down syndrome model on British Vogue cover
- AO Arena / BBC Studios — tour lineup, judges, host, and arena details
