Vito Coppola has become a household name across the UK, captivating audiences with his infectious energy and remarkable talent. As a professional dancer on the much-loved BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, Coppola’s journey has been marked by triumphs, challenges, and a growing connection with British fans. In 2025, his name is trending once again, thanks to a new nationwide tour and his continued presence on the UK’s most popular dance programme.
Rising to Fame: From Italy to the UK
Born in Italy, Vito Coppola began dancing at the age of six. By ten, he was already winning national championships. His early career saw him become an eleven-time Italian Latin American Champion, a three-time World Championship finalist, and a European Cup winner. Coppola’s competitive spirit and technical prowess led him to victory on Ballando con le Stelle, the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing, before he set his sights on the UK.
His arrival on Strictly Come Dancing was met with excitement. Coppola quickly established himself as a fan favourite, known for his dynamic routines and warm personality. In 2023, he lifted the coveted Glitterball Trophy alongside Ellie Leach, cementing his status as one of the show’s brightest stars.
Strictly Come Dancing: A New Chapter
Coppola’s impact on Strictly Come Dancing has been profound. His partnership with Sarah Hadland in the 2024 series saw them reach the final, delighting viewers with their chemistry and creativity. The BBC has confirmed that Coppola will return for the 2025 series, joining a line-up of celebrated professionals and two new recruits. The show’s producers have praised the professionals as the “vital essence” of the programme, promising another season filled with unforgettable performances and the much-anticipated trip to Blackpool’s Tower Ballroom.
Overcoming Setbacks: Injury and Resilience
The start of 2025 brought unexpected challenges for Coppola. Scheduled to perform on the Strictly Come Dancing Live UK Tour, he was forced to withdraw from the opening shows due to a lower back injury. Speaking on ITV’s This Morning, Coppola explained that while he could walk and move, the demands of full-on dancing required him to rest and recover. Fellow professional Nikita Kuzmin stepped in as his replacement for the first three shows, while Coppola focused on physiotherapy and a careful recovery plan.
Despite his absence from the tour’s launch in Birmingham, Coppola remained upbeat. He expressed his support for Hadland and assured fans that he hoped to rejoin the tour in Sheffield later in January. His positive attitude and commitment to his craft resonated with fans, who flooded social media with messages of encouragement.
Red Hot and Ready: A New Dance Extravaganza
While recovering from injury, Coppola has been preparing for another major project: the Red Hot and Ready tour. Teaming up with fellow Strictly star Dianne Buswell, Coppola will headline this dynamic new dance show, which is set to tour the UK in June and July 2025. Created by renowned choreographer Jason Gilkison, the show promises a high-voltage celebration of dance, featuring jaw-dropping choreography, live music, and a cast of world-class performers.
The tour will visit 30 venues across the country, including a special performance at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre on 22 June. Coppola has described the show as “Red, Hot, and Ready,” promising audiences “so much joy and smiles and happiness”. Buswell echoed his excitement, calling Coppola a “phenomenal partner” and expressing her eagerness to share their passion for dance with UK audiences.
The Legacy of Burn the Floor
Red Hot and Ready builds on the legacy of Burn the Floor, a global dance sensation that has wowed audiences for over two decades. Coppola and Buswell, both alumni of the show, bring their unique chemistry and technical brilliance to this new production. The show’s creator, Jason Gilkison, has worked with international stars such as Cher, Celine Dion, and Robbie Williams, ensuring that Red Hot and Ready will be a spectacle to remember.
Personal Connections and Community Spirit
Coppola’s appeal extends beyond his dance skills. He is known for his warmth and camaraderie with fellow professionals. In May 2025, he sent a heartfelt birthday message to his friend and former colleague Graziano Di Prima, who had recently left Strictly following controversy. Coppola’s public support for Di Prima highlighted the close-knit nature of the Strictly community and his reputation as a supportive and genuine colleague.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Vito Coppola?
As the UK looks forward to another season of Strictly Come Dancing, Coppola’s star continues to rise. His resilience in the face of injury, his commitment to his fans, and his passion for dance make him a standout figure in British entertainment. The upcoming Red Hot and Ready tour is set to be one of the year’s most exciting live events, offering audiences a chance to experience Coppola’s artistry up close.
With his return to Strictly confirmed and a new tour on the horizon, Vito Coppola remains at the heart of the UK’s dance scene. His journey from Italian champion to British favourite is a testament to his talent, determination, and the universal language of dance.
Behind the Scenes: Vito’s Approach and Philosophy
Vito Coppola’s approach to both live performance and television is rooted in authenticity and connection. He emphasises the importance of “going with the flow” and making each experience unique for his dance partners and audiences. In his own words, the key is to “see the sparkle in their eyes and make them feel amazing and happy.” This philosophy has resonated with fans and contributed to his growing popularity in the UK.
Coppola’s love for exploring new cities during the tour is well known. He enjoys discovering local brunch spots and soaking up the atmosphere of each place, which helps him recharge and deliver his best on stage. This down-to-earth attitude has endeared him to audiences and reinforced his reputation as a relatable and genuine performer.
Conclusion
Vito Coppola’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and connection. Whether dazzling millions on television or inspiring audiences in theatres across the UK, he embodies the spirit of dance. As 2025 unfolds, British fans can look forward to more unforgettable moments from this extraordinary performer, both on the ballroom floor and beyond.
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