Strictly’s Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola are ‘faking their romance’ to get to the final

STRICTLY Come Dancing favourites Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola are not dating — but want viewers to think they are.

The pair have embarked on a “showmance” in the hope it wins them the hit BBC dance contest.

News of their pretend love affair comes after a frenzy of fan speculation — with ex-Corrie actress Ellie, 22, and pro partner Vito, 31, failing to shut down rumours of a relationship.

A source said last night: “Vito is an experienced pro, and knows what he’s doing.

“He and Ellie had an instant friendship and a great connection, but it definitely wasn’t sexual.

“However, once viewers picked up on their connection, Vito especially was keen to let people jump to their own conclusions.

“By letting people think they’re together, the hope is they’ll further endear themselves to the nation.

“A few others on the show think it’s a bit cynical but they genuinely are having a lot of fun together.”

Ellie, who played Faye Windass in the soap, and Vito have been photographed on cosy “date nights” together, and flirted over social media.

He was previously on the Italian version of Strictly, Stars Ballando con le Stelle — which he won in 2021 with popstar Arisa and the pair went on to date.

Earlier tonight, a Strictly spokeswoman declined to comment.