BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro says 'need a big hug' in rare family announcement

Strictly Come Dancing pro Vito Coppola revealed he was emotional ahead of the live show as he prepared to welcome two of his family members to the audience. The professional dancer, who won last year's show with Coronation Street star Ellie Leach, will take to the dance floor for icons week with his celeb partner Sarah Hadland.

The pair are dancing a cha cha cha to Madonna's Like A Prayer. Vito admitted he was emotional ahead of the live show as he had two very special guests in the audience. The Italian star is set to receive a visit from his mum and auntie.

He shared on Instagram: "Right now I really need a biiiiiig Hug. Tomorrow my mommy and my auntie will come to watch the live show and I am so so happy.

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"Thank you all beautiful people for just being always so supportive and nice and welcome to me. The UK became home to me, and this because of you and all the love that you send me."

Vito doesn't get to see his family, who live in Italy, too much, especially during the competition. Talking about tomorrow night's dance, he added: "Ready for tomorrow, after another intense and very productive week. We are working hard and harder every single day…Let’s cha cha cha. We are super exited to show you our routine. Hopefully you will enjoy watching us as much as we enjoy dancing."

Ellie Leach was one of the first to reply, saying: "Sending you the biggest huggggg," and adding a love heart emoji.

A Strictly fan wrote: "Wow having your mom and aunty watching you dance on Saturday night is the best and I bet you can’t wait to give them both the biggest hug. I can’t wait to watch you and Sarah dance go team tiramisu."

"Aww sending you a massive hug," another fan added.

Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturday, November 2 at 6.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.