Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola heartbreaking career admission 'I just walked away'
Strictly Come Dancing professional Vito Coppola has told fans of his 'emotional' past after he 'walked away' from a dance coach early in his career, as he was flooded with support
Strictly Come Dancing star Vito Coppola
(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
Vito Coppola has opened up to fans about his decision to 'walk away' from a dance coach early in his career, receiving an outpouring of support for sharing his emotional journey.
The professional dancer is best known and adored for his role on Strictly Come Dancing, having joined the cast in 2022.
In his debut year, Vito reached the final with Fleur East, before clinching the title alongside former Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach in 2023. He then made it to the final once again in 2024, partnered with actress Sarah Hadland.
It has been confirmed Vito will be returning to the ballroom later this year for the 23rd series of Strictly.
The BBC has announced the line-up of professional dancers for the 2025 season of the popular dance show, with Vito being joined by Katya Jones, Nadiya Bychkova, Amy Dowden, Karen Hauer, Neil Jones, and Nikita Kuzmin, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Also returning are Dianne Buswell, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, and Michelle Tsiakkas, while two new professionals will be introduced closer to the series launch.
Vito won the show with Ellie
(Image: PA)
Before his return to Strictly, Vito was gearing up to tour the country with Dianne Buswell in their joint-headline tour this summer. However, a recent trip back to Italy has prompted the dance star to reflect on his past.
Taking to Instagram, the Italian celebrity posted a clip of himself striking poses on the red carpet at the recent Bafta Television Awards and addressed his followers: "Good day, beautiful people!".
"Today, I want to share a little story from my past. Back when I used to compete, I had a coach who was harsh with me every time I didn't follow his instructions to the letter.
"The thing is, as many of you know, I'm a free spirit..spontaneous, transparent, and true to myself. That kind of personality doesn't always sit well with people who want control.
"One day, that coach told me: 'If you just follow your instincts, you're going to fail!' Those words were powerful and dangerous. But in that moment, I made a choice: I would never let someone else's beliefs define my reality!".
"So I walked away, not out of weakness, but out of love and respect for myself. I didn't know exactly where I was going or what I was doing, but I knew one thing: it felt right!"
Vito added: "Today, I just want to say thank you to those who truly believe in me, love me, and support me every step of the way. I'm deeply grateful...it means more than you can imagine. Sharing my experience is my way of telling you: YOU MATTER. WE MATTER. EVERYONE MATTERS! Never lose your smile, and always believe in yourself first. Most importantly, surround yourself with the right people, those who are real, genuine, and loyal. The kind of people with whom even a simple dinner of bread and water feels like a feast. That's true wealth!".
He said: "Always stay true to yourself, follow your instincts and your heart...and know that you're already a winner! And if anyone tries to hold you back? Show them what you're made of! Choose kindness and love... and remember to smile! V."
And he was quickly inundated with support. @mmmyummystrawberries said: "I literally feel like standing up and applauding out loud reading that! Every word you said is so true. Always follow your gut, always stay true to yourself and do what's right for you. With you always."
@jt_taylor73 commented: "Well done @vitocoppola that must've been so hard! But look where you are now! Beautiful inside and out, smashing life."
@caitlinwestiexoxo wrote: "We love you Vito! !".
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@ms_lou_rob responded: "That's such brilliant advice. Thank you @vitocoppola for just being you. Have a fantastic day."
@maureenstephenson71 commented: "Thank you for sharing your story you certainly haven't failed staying true to yourself is the best advice you can give, you are an a amazing person."
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