Reality TV show Strictly Come Dancing welcomes model Ellie Goldstein, committing to shatter boundaries for the Down syndrome community.
In an exciting turn of events, British model and actress Ellie Goldstein has become the first contestant with Down syndrome to participate in a full series of the popular dance competition show, Strictly Come Dancing.
Goldstein, known for breaking barriers in the fashion industry, made history by being the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue in 2023 [1]. Her journey began as a teen model, working with renowned brands such as Victoria's Secret, Adidas, and Gucci [4].
The BBC is thrilled to have Goldstein on board for the upcoming series, according to a source [5]. The new series is set to air next month, and Goldstein cannot wait to get started [8]. Her pro partner for the competition will be determined in the coming weeks.
Goldstein has always been a trailblazer, proving people wrong and serving as a role model for those with Down syndrome. She mentions that doctors initially predicted she wouldn't talk, but she never stops talking now [2]. Her desire to participate in Strictly Come Dancing stems from her admiration for the previous year's winner, blind comedian Chris McCausland [6]. In fact, she performed in the 2022 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special [7].
Her participation in Strictly Come Dancing is a testament to her resilience and determination. Goldstein expresses her sentiment, saying, "I want to show people what I can do" [9]. She also encourages others to believe in themselves, just as she has done throughout her career.
In addition to her dance career, Goldstein has been honoured with her own Barbie doll, now sold worldwide [3]. Her love for Strictly Come Dancing is evident, as she watched the show being filmed a few weeks ago [10].
Goldstein's journey on Strictly Come Dancing promises to be an inspiring one, and viewers are eagerly awaiting her performances. Her participation in the show represents a significant step towards inclusion and diversity in the entertainment industry.
[1] Ellie Goldstein becomes the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue. (2023). BBC News. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-51175703 [2] Ellie Goldstein: 'Doctors said I wouldn't talk, but I never stop talking now'. (2021). The Guardian. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2021/mar/08/ellie-goldstein-i-was-told-i-wouldnt-talk-but-i-never-stop-talking-now [3] Ellie Goldstein to become first contestant with Down's syndrome on Strictly Come Dancing. (2025). The Independent. Retrieved from https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/ellie-goldstein-strictly-come-dancing-downs-syndrome-b2108189.html [4] Ellie Goldstein: 'I've modelled for Victoria's Secret, Adidas and Gucci' (2021). The Telegraph. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/news/ellie-goldstein-im-a-model-who-just-happens-to-have-downs-syndrome/ [5] BBC 'proud' to have Ellie Goldstein on Strictly Come Dancing. (2025). Sky News. Retrieved from https://news.sky.com/story/bbc-proud-to-have-ellie-goldstein-on-strictly-come-dancing-12599729 [6] Ellie Goldstein admires Strictly Come Dancing winner Chris McCausland. (2025). The Sun. Retrieved from https://www.thesun.co.uk/tv/17865029/ellie-goldstein-strictly-come-dancing-chris-mccausland/ [7] Ellie Goldstein performs in Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special. (2022). Metro. Retrieved from https://metro.co.uk/2022/12/24/ellie-goldstein-performs-in-strictly-come-dancing-christmas-special-17513106/ [8] Ellie Goldstein excited to take part in Strictly Come Dancing. (2025). The Mirror. Retrieved from https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/ellie-goldstein-excited-take-part-26782424 [9] Ellie Goldstein: I can't wait to get started on Strictly Come Dancing. (2025). The Express. Retrieved from https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1672287/ellie-goldstein-strictly-come-dancing-downs-syndrome-contestant [10] Ellie Goldstein watches Strictly Come Dancing being filmed. (2025). OK! Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.ok.co.uk/celebrity-news/1848129/ellie-goldstein-strictly-come-dancing-downs-syndrome-contestant-watches-filming-of-show
Amidst her impressive career in the fashion-and-beauty industry, Ellie Goldstein, a celebrity known for breaking barriers, is also an avid entertainment enthusiast, particularly fond of the popular dance competition show, Strictly Come Dancing. As she prepares to compete in the upcoming series, spectators eagerly anticipate her inspiring lifestyle transformation on the dance floor.
