The Italian dancer’s true feelings were clear as he was gracious in defeat to Chris McCausland
Strictly Come Dancing’s Vito Coppola’s spirits haven’t been dampened despite having to relinquish his glitterball crown. The Italian dancer appeared in his third final last night as he took to the dancefloor for the last time with Sarah Hadland.
The two wowed fans and judges with three more incredible performances in Saturday’s showpiece event. Vito and Sarah performed a Show Dance to Cabaret by Metropole Orkest, an American Smooth to Proud by Heather Small and a Cha Cha to Like A Prayer by Madonna.
The final dance of the season saw them earn a perfect 40 and bring the curtain down on their partnership in style. Vito was bidding to retain his Strictly crown after he won last season’s show with Ellie Leach.
However, he had to settle for a runner’s up spot as he was narrowly beaten by Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell. There were no hard feelings as Vito took to the comments after Chris’ win to share a subtle tribute to the winners.
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The dancer simply shared a series of heart emojis to show his support after the triumph. A fan named Linda spotted the tribute and reciprocated with her own heart emoji after the update.
Scouse comedian Chris is the show’s first ever blind contestant and his inspiring story captured the hearts of the nation. The 47-year-old was overcome with emotion after he was announced as this season’s winner.
He said: “It’s astonishing. I don’t know what to say. I honestly thought I could go out in the first week or two. I know nobody could go out in the first week but I still thought I could.
“We’ve just lasted and lasted. She has got so much out of me and she deserves this so much. Every day, she is positivity, she is belief and she is one of the easiest people to be funny with that I’ve ever met.”
He added: “Unless she changes her number, she’s stuck with me. This is for her and this is for everyone out there who got told they couldn’t do something or thought they couldn’t do something. With opportunity, support and determination, anything can happen.”
Chris’ fellow finalist, Lauren Oakley, was similarly gracious in defeat as she issued a tribute on her Instagram page. She said: “Guys you were just inspirational, stunning, beautiful and so touching.
“Congratulations champions. What you created on that dance floor was pure magic.” Fans branded Chris a deserving winner after his inspiring story moved the nation.
Dan said: “Absolute proof that anything is possible!” Kelly added: “Have cried a river tonight ! What a final ! Chris you are simply inspirational. Dianne , what a teacher.”
Catherine posted: “Chris is the embodiment of what strictly is all about. In the 20 years of watching this show they have been my favourite couple. I have never rooted for a celeb more in my life”
