Strictly star reveals Ellie Goldstein's backstage comment as she addresses 'tears' during live show

Strictly Come Dancing's Fleur East has revealed the comment Ellie Goldstein made to her backstage after fans feared that she was upset during the BBC One live show.

The disability activist and model, 23, performed in her first live show on Saturday with professional partner Vito Coppola. However, some fans were left concerned after they spotted the star appearing to be comforted by professional dancers Dianne Buswell, Karen Hauer, and fellow contestant Harry Aikines-Aryeetey while co-host Claudia Winkleman interviewed other contestants.

Ellie and Vito appeared on It Takes Two this evening to chat about their time so far in the competition - and co-host Fleur East brought up the moment. She also revealed that she spoke to Ellie on the night herself.

• Prince William makes heartbreaking Queen Elizabeth admission in rare TV interview
• Gogglebox's Siddiqui family flooded with support as they announce heartbreaking loss

"Now Ellie a few people online thought you looked upset on Saturday but backstage you told me you had a great night," Fleur said. "Did you enjoy it?"

Ellie responded: "Yes I did. I was not upset at all - I was absolutely fine and it was a great night with him. It was the best night ever."

Ellie later thanked her social media followers for all their support, saying: "Thank you for the comments. they are really kind. Be confident, be in your element and be happy."

Later in the show, the pair revealed that they would be performing a Waltz in Week Two of the competition - with Alison Hammond sending a good luck message to a delighted Ellie.

"Ellie - well done! You smashed it, you did it, oh my God," she said. "Honestly, it was such a good dance and I'm so, so very proud of you. Keep dancing.

"You are going to smash this babes. Bye Vito, Bye Ellie - I love ya!" A grinning Ellie waved back, saying: "Bye Alison, love you Alison."

Ellie took to social media yesterday to reassure fans that she wasn't upset at the live show, writing: "Thank you all so much for the incredible love and support! I’m over the moon that so many of you enjoyed watching me dance last night - I’m honestly having the time of my life. This really is a dream come true."

She added that her eyes can appear watery during the live show. "Just a little note: sometimes my eyes get watery after a long day - I promise I’m not upset! I’m doing so well and feeling SO happy, and your concern truly means the world."

Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two airs weekdays at 6:30pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

* Join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Communityor follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Threads- or visit The Mirror homepage.