Ellie Goldstein made television history by becoming the first celebrity with Down syndrome to join a full series of Strictly Come Dancing. The 23-year-old model was announced as part of the 2025 cast during BBC Breakfast on Wednesday morning, marking another milestone in her barrier-breaking career.
The trailblazing model looked overjoyed as she stepped out from BBC Studios in Salford moments after the announcement went public. She wore a pink polo shirt and matching sequinned skirt with white Mary Jane shoes, flashing a proud smile at photographers.
Dream come true moment
"I'm absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year," Goldstein said. "It's a show I've loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream. I know it's going to be challenging, but I'm ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dancefloor. Let the Strictly journey begin!"
She acknowledged the challenge ahead but promised to embrace the show's signature style with enthusiasm.
Established success story
Goldstein's Strictly casting continues her remarkable career trajectory that has already broken numerous barriers in fashion and entertainment. She became the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue and appeared in campaigns for major brands including Gucci, Victoria's Secret and TK Maxx.
The model also helped Mattel launch its first Barbie doll with Down syndrome. "I've done so much modelling and I love it," she told the Daily Mail. "And I adored doing the Barbie job -- it was great to finally see a doll that looked like me."
Her television experience includes appearing on Great British Bake Off's Stand Up To Cancer celebrity special earlier this year alongside Kate Garraway, Sarah Beeny, Gloria Hunniford and Meera Syal.
Industry celebrates casting
The announcement sparked immediate celebration from Strictly professionals and celebrities. Judge Shirley Ballas wrote: "Welcome to the family darling," while fellow judge Motsi Mabuse added: "Welcome to the Strictly madness! Get ready for glitter, giggles and a whole lot of dancing."
Professional dancers Gorka Marquez and Dianne Buswell both welcomed Goldstein to the show, with former contestant Tasha Ghouri showing support with love heart emojis. The warm reception demonstrates the industry's embrace of the historic casting.
Advocacy milestone recognised
Learning disability charity Mencap, for which Goldstein serves as an ambassador, praised the casting's broader significance. Chief Executive Jon Sparkes said: "Ellie has never been afraid to push boundaries, and this is just another way to show what people with a learning disability can achieve with the right support."
Sparkes highlighted the casting's potential impact on public perceptions. "We really hope that seeing Ellie do her thing on a Saturday night will start important conversations among the millions of viewers, so we can all move towards a more inclusive society."
Personal triumph narrative
Goldstein's journey to television stardom defied early medical predictions. When she was born in December 2001, doctors told her parents she would "never walk or talk," with one nurse suggesting they might want to "leave her" at the hospital.
Instead, she has achieved remarkable success across multiple industries. Her mother Yvonne previously revealed that Ellie wanted to be famous from age two, with her "outgoing" and "bubbly" personality driving her achievements.
Continuing inclusivity evolution
HuffPost UK reports that the casting represents another step in Strictly's increasing commitment to disability representation. The show has featured deaf contestant Tasha Ghouri reaching the final, blind winner Chris McCausland, and George Webster appearing in the 2022 Christmas special.
Goldstein will compete alongside confirmed celebrities including former Love Island star Dani Dyer, Doctor Who actress Alex Kingston, and Gladiators star Nitro, with additional names yet to be announced for the 2025 series.
Sources used: "Daily Mail", "HuffPost UK" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
