Overview

• Goldstein and pro partner Vito Coppola opened their Strictly campaign with a cha cha to Ariana Grande’s Yes, And? and scored 17 points.
• Judges praised her timing and presence, with Anton Du Beke calling her a joy and Shirley Ballas handing her a “fabulous” fan, while Craig Revel Horwood noted flat-footed moments.
• Viewers later expressed concern after cameras showed Goldstein appearing emotional as fellow dancers offered support off to the side.
• Goldstein posted that she had “the best time ever,” explained that her eyes sometimes water after a long day, and emphasized she felt happy and supported.
• The 23-year-old model and actor, widely described as the show’s first contestant with Down syndrome, enters the series with a high-profile track record including a 2020 Gucci campaign, a 2023 British Vogue cover and advocacy work with Mencap and Mattel’s inclusive Barbie.