BBC Strictly’s Ellie Leach ‘is dating’ Vito despite showmance claims

BBC Strictly Come Dancing stars Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola are dating each other and are not embroiled in a showmance, sources claimed on Saturday.

The dance partners, who picked Beauty and the Beast for their quarter-final Musicals Week Quickstep, have been at the centre of romance speculation due to their closeness.

Last week, their relationship was labelled a "showmance" to help win votes by some sceptics. But a pal of Ellie's insisted on Saturday that they have been together since November and the romance is genuine, as first reported by the Mirror.

Vito, 31, has visited the ex-Corrie star's home several times outside of training, and Ellie, 22, has confided in friends about her new relationship with the dance pro.

Ellie's pal said of their romance: "Initially, they were friendly but as the weeks went on, their relationship changed. Ellie has made it clear to friends how happy she is with Vito.

"She's not the kind of person to fake something like that for votes. Putting on a showmance isn't her style what you see with her is what you get. When Ellie started Strictly, she was self-conscious and unsure. Now she's radiating confidence, which is lovely."

The couple have fuelled romance rumours in recent weeks with a series of steamy dances. Last Saturday they impressed with an Argentine Tango, and Vito was recorded telling Ellie to "eat me with your eyes".

A second source shared that their growing closeness is not only noticeable backstage at Elstree Studios but also while promoting the show together.

They said: "Ellie and Vito have become so close that they're often seen all over each other, and the chemistry is striking. The rumour they're more than friends isn't openly discussed, but it's widely understood."

Last week on It Takes Two, Ellie called Vito "wild" and credited him with her newfound confidence. But she brushed off questions about their romance, saying: "There's always speculation. Honestly, we're just so busy dancing."

OK! has contacted representatives for Ellie, Vito and Strictly for comment.

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