Strictly Come Dancing's reigning champion, Ellie Leach, has revealed the profoundly emotional reason her 2023 victory meant more than just a trophy. The former Coronation Street star shared that her late grandfather's final wish was to see her win the BBC dance competition.
In an exclusive and tearful interview, Ellie recounted how her granddad, who passed away shortly after her triumph, was her biggest supporter. "He said to my nana, 'I just need to see her lift that Glitterball'," the 22-year-old disclosed, her voice filled with emotion.
The Emotional Final Curtain
Ellie's journey to the Strictly finale was shadowed by her grandfather's declining health. She described the bittersweet moment of her win, knowing it was his last wish to witness her success. The young dancer dedicated her entire performance to him throughout the competition.
"It was the last thing he saw me do," Ellie shared, explaining that he watched her final performance from his hospital bed. The family celebrated her victory together with him, creating a final, precious memory.
Beyond the Glitterball
While Ellie triumphed over fellow finalists Bobby Brazier and Layton Williams with professional partner Vito Coppola, she insists the real victory was fulfilling her grandfather's dream. The experience has given her a new perspective on success and family.
The actress, who played Faye Windass on the ITV soap for twelve years, also opened up about how Strictly helped her rediscover her confidence after leaving Coronation Street. The dance competition became more than a career move—it became a tribute to her biggest fan.
Ellie's story has touched Strictly fans nationwide, reminding viewers that behind the glitter and glamour lie real human stories of love, loss, and unforgettable family bonds.
