Strictly's Vito Coppola shares emotional statement after "priceless" experience
Strictly Come Dancing star Vito Coppola has shared an emotional statement after his "priceless" experience on Celebrity MasterChef.
After six intense weeks in the kitchen, the professional dancer was crowned the champion of the 2024 series last week – ahead of This Morning presenter Craig Doyle and actor Rochenda Sandall.
To commemorate his time on the show, Vito posted a heartfelt video on Instagram, in which he shared his "happiness" and disbelief at winning.
"I honestly don't know where to start... I tried to keep everything in mind but one minute and a half is too short to say everything," the caption read.
"I want to thank my amazing travel companions, I have new friends now and I have loved every single moment together guys."
Vito also thanked judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace for their support, as well as the "amazing" behind-the-scenes crew and production team.
"This is just [a] once in a life experience and it's just priceless," he continued. "I dedicated this amazing journey to my family and I mean ALL the people who are in my life and that I identify as family."
The star went on to reveal that he will be taking his MasterChef trophy to his family in Italy, adding: "I hope you are proud of me, because without you I am nothing. You are the reason why I do everything, every single thing.
"Thank you to all beautiful people for supporting me always and forever. Thank you @masterchefuk. Food is life!"
Vito concluded: "I am a lucky boy. I am happy and that's why I will always keep sharing with you all my Love, because as I always say: 'Love is the best ingredient.'
"I will keep and protect this [sic] memories in my heart for the rest of my life."
This weekend (21st September), Vito returned to the Strictly ballroom for the first live show of the 2024 season.
The reigning champion is paired with Miranda actor Sarah Hadland, with the duo scoring an impressive 30 points for their Dolly Parton-inspired quickstep – the highest ever score for a quickstep in week one.
Craig Revel Horwood branded the routine "fantastic", with head judge Shirley Ballas adding: "Entertainment, frame, great footwork, I just love this pairing."
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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