STRICTLY’s Craig Revel Horwood shocked viewers as he broke down in tears during the live final.
Craig, 58, is infamous for his stony-faced exterior and harsh judging technique – but it was a totally different story tonight.
The TV personality couldn’t hide his emotions while critiquing Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola‘s second performance tonight.
In the final moments of the otherwise well-executed showdance, the Corrie star slipped as she tried to get on Vito’s shoulders.
He managed to save her before she hit the stage, but the actress looked upset that the moment was not perfectly executed.
Craig was quick to comfort her, assuring it’s important to try new things.
“I’m so pleased that you did take a risk. And I think back, actually, to series one and I was imagining Natasha Kaplinksy doing that and how far this programme has come,” he said to audience laughter.
Craig added, “You’re amazing,” with watery eyes – which prompted Motsi Mabuse to place a hand on his shoulder.
BBC viewers were left surprised by the moment, taking to X – formerly Twitter – to air their thoughts.
One wrote, “Craig getting choked up talking about Ellie is making me weepy again,” while another added, “Craig getting emotional, wow.”
Someone else asked, “Was Craig getting emotional?????”
A fourth chimed in with, “Craig getting a tad emosh?”
Vito even kissed Ellie on the cheek after they completed their first dance of the evening.
The pair have sparked plenty of rumours that they were dating throughout the dance show as Vito began sharing photos of them cuddled up.
They could be seen napping on top of each other in romantic snaps.
Ellie has also shared the emotional statement that the Italian dancer “changed her life”.
Despite the pair saying they were going to put their connection on ice to focus on their dance routine ahead of the final, Vito was spotted sharing an intimate moment with his partner after their dance tonight.
