Ellie Goldstein and her professional partner Vito Coppola performed at St James's Palace for the Duchess of Edinburgh, according to multiple reports. Goldstein is the first contestant with Down syndrome to compete on Strictly Come Dancing, and the Duchess hosted a special afternoon tea at the palace. Goldstein reflected on the royal engagement, saying, "It means so much to be recognised by a member of the royal family. I’m proud to show that people with a learning disability can achieve their dreams."
Goldstein and Coppola were eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing after a dance-off with Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon, as reported by major media outlets. Goldstein is a Mencap Myth Buster ambassador, and Jon Sparkes, chief executive of Mencap, attended the event at St James's Palace. Coppola praised Goldstein, stating, "Honestly, there are no words I can use to describe how proud I am of you and you did really change my life so much."
Honestly, there are no words I can use to describe how proud I am of you and you did really change my life so much. You made me such a better person. At the beginning of this year, I said to myself, 'Please, please, please can you send me a beautiful angel into my life?' And now you arrived. I've never had a little sister but I always wanted one. Now, I have you and you're my little sister forever, and your big brother is always by your side.
Separately, the Duchess of Edinburgh made a surprise appearance at the inaugural Jane Goodall Hope Awards at the Peninsula London, according to multiple reports. Ricky Gervais, Peter Egan, and Dr Jill Robinson received the awards, and the Prince of Wales sent a pre-recorded message.
I've enjoyed it so much [dancing with Vito]! He is a kind person and all I wanted from day one. You have been so heartwarming, thank you to you [Vito].
It means so much to be recognised by a member of the royal family. I’m proud to show that people with a learning disability can achieve their dreams and to never give up what they want to do.
Everyone learns differently and dancing with someone who has a learning disability means thinking outside the box and understanding how to communicate and teach in the best way that works for them.
It recognises not only Ellie’s talent and determination, but the way she has challenged assumptions and opened hearts and minds across the country.