Strictly viewers have heaped praise on one of the judging panel for their ‘subtle critique’ of contestant Ellie Goldstein after her Spice Girls themed salsa with partner Vito Coppola

Strictly fans have heaped praise on one judge for his ‘subtle’ critique of contestant Ellie Goldstein, branding the other judges “clowns”. Ellie, 23, is a model and actress who became the first person with Down Syndrome to feature on the cover of high-end fashion mag Vogue.

The trailblazing star then became the first person with the condition to compete on Strictly. She and her partner, Vito Coppola, scored 28 on their Spice Girls-themed salsa last night (Saturday).

Fans have praised judge Craig Revel Horwood for his treatment of Ellie, with many hailing him the “best judge”. One fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Fully respect Craig for subtly critiquing Ellie in the correct way without coming off as patronising. This is why he’s the best judge.”

Another echoed: “Craig once again showing reason he is the best judge on #StrictlyComeDancing – actual critiques to Ellie without being patronising like the three other clowns on the panel. Thanks Craig.”

Ellie and Vito danced the salsa to a medley of Spice Girls songs(PA)

Someone else added: “Craig marks on ability, not disability.” A fourth viewer wrote: “I love Ellie’s candidness, and I love that she’s thoroughly enjoying herself, but for other judges to mark her high is an insult to her.”

One fan typed: “She should be treated equally. It’s a competition.. although obviously with both care and a certain circumspection.” A different viewer penned: “Craig is the only one who speaks to Ellie like an adult and gives her stuff to work on #Strictly.”

And it wasn’t just Judge Craig’s treatment of Ellie that fans were impressed with. Her dancing partner, Vito, was spotted making a sweet gesture to the young star.

Following their salsa, the duo stood in front of the judges awaiting their feedback. It was then that fans noticed the Italian dancer embrace his partner and gently wipe away a tear.

Ellie, who is a big fan of the Spice Girls, dressed up as Baby Spice for their performance – it was clear that the moment nearly became overwhelming for the actress. However, Vito was on hand to help compose her again, much to the delight of viewers.

Taking to X, one user wrote: “Vito checking on Ellie and dabbing away a tear. #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing” They added crying emoji faces to their message.

Ellie, 23, was paired up with pro dancer Vito Coppola(BBC/PA Wire)

“Vito’s pride for Ellie is so sweet and endearing. #strictly #StrictlyComeDancing,” gushed another. And a third added: “Vito deserves a lot of praise with how he’s taught Ellie to dance.”

Following the performance and judge’s comments, Ellie was surprised once again as she received a special on-screen message from Emma Bunton. The Spice Girls star told Ellie she was her favourite contestant and was thrilled to see her dress as her.

Ellie previously expressed her desire to join Strictly. She is a huge fan of the show and has always wanted to be a part of it.

Speaking a few years ago, she said: “My absolute favourite thing in the world is dancing. One day I would love to be on Strictly Come Dancing. I went to watch it being filmed a few weeks ago, but I didn’t want to be in the audience, I wanted to be on the dancefloor!”

When she signed up for the show, Ellie said she was “over the moon” to be on the show. She said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year.

“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!”