BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola supported by Ellie Leach as he makes emotional family announcement

Vito Coppola was supported by former dance partner Ellie Leach after the Strictly Come Dancing star shared an emotional 'need' admission and confirmed news about some of his family members.

The dancer took to social media ahead of his next performance with actress Sarah Hadland in the BBC One dance contest. The pair will be seen in the ballroom on Saturday night (November 2) as the first-ever 'Icons Week' takes place.

Week seven of the hit programme sees the remaining 10 celebrities and their professional dance partners perform a routine accompanied by a track from a well-known singer.

READ MORE: Four BBC Strictly Come Dancing stars 'at risk' named amid first Icons Week

The brand new special for Strictly's 20th anniversary series will see Miranda actress Sarah channel Madonna in a cha cha to Like A Prayer, alongside dance partner Vito.

But ahead of their latest performance, Vito took to Instagram with a string of snaps in which he could be seen shirltess and showing off his ripped physique.

Sharing the post on Friday (November 1) ahead of his and Sarah's next weekend in the famous Strictly ballroom, Vito said: "Ready for tomorrow, after another intense and very productive week.

"We are working hard and harder every single day… Let’s cha cha cha. We are super excited to show you our routine. Hopefully you will enjoy watching us as much as we enjoy dancing. Right now I really need a biiiiiig Hug. Tomorrow my mommy and my auntie will come to watch the live show and I am so so happy."

The Italian dancer added: "Thank you all beautiful people for just being always so supportive and nice and welcome to me. The UK became home to me, and this because of you and all the love that you send me #alwayswithlove V."

Quick to respond to the post was Ellie, who won Strictly's 2023 series alongside Vito with the pair becoming close friends. She said: "Sending you the biggest huggggg." His lookalike brother Jonathan also showed support as he wrote in the comments: "Always with you bro. A big hug for you." Ellie's mum Karen posted: "Sending you big hugs our darling Vito. Forever proud of you."