Strictly Come Dancing’s Ellie Goldstein: From Groundbreaking Model to Disability Advocate
Ellie Goldstein is set to make history once again. The 23-year-old model and CCBC actress will become the first person with Down’s syndrome to compete on the main series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Excitement is already building among fans as she prepares to dazzle audiences this autumn.
Off-screen, Ellie’s life has been nothing short of remarkable. Beyond modelling for major brands and making waves as the first woman with Down’s syndrome on the cover of Vogue, she has become a prominent disability campaigner. But her journey has also included moments of fear and uncertainty.
Disability Campaigning
Ellie has consistently championed the rights and representation of people with learning disabilities. During Learning Disability Week in June, she fronted Mencap’s campaign to challenge common misconceptions.
“I love how the photos have turned out, I look so cool in all the lovely outfits! It’s really exciting to see myself in the shop windows. It means a lot to me to be part of Learning Disability Week and to show what people with learning disabilities can achieve – follow your dreams!” she said.
Jon Sparkes, Mencap’s chief executive, praised Ellie’s impact: “We are so proud to see our Mencap myth buster Ellie revealed as a celebrity dancer for this year’s Strictly.
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.
“At Mencap we know how important it is for people to feel seen, included and recognised. 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.”
Overcoming a Devastating Diagnosis
Ellie’s early life was challenging. Her mother, Yvonne, recalled the shock of learning Ellie had Down’s syndrome: “The doctors said she would never walk or talk and a nurse suggested we might want to leave her at the hospital. I struggled to accept her diagnosis and bond with her.”
Ellie also needed urgent heart surgery as an infant. Her mother added: “We were told Ellie needed heart surgery so I was really nervous about getting close to her.
When she was five months old, she had a 10-hour operation to close holes in her heart. She spent 10 days in intensive care and another week in the high dependency unit.”
Thankfully, Ellie pulled through. “Then her cheeky and determined personality began to shine through,” Yvonne said.
Launching the First Barbie with Down Syndrome
Ellie has made history again through her collaboration with Mattel. Two years ago, she helped launch the first Barbie with Down’s syndrome. The project, developed with the National Down Syndrome Society in the US, aimed to ensure authentic representation.
“When I saw the doll, I felt so emotional and proud,” Ellie shared on Instagram. “It means a lot to me that children will be able to play with the doll and learn that everyone is different.
I am proud that Barbie chose me to show the dolls to the world. Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away, Barbie will help make this happen.”
The doll features distinctive traits such as a rounder shape, almond-shaped eyes, smaller ears, a flat nasal bridge, and a single line on the palms.
A Life of Independence
Ellie has also marked milestones in her personal life. At 21, she bought her first house, sharing with the BBC: “I’ve just bought a new house and I can’t wait for Christmas.
I love spending time with my nephew, who is two, and opening lots of presents. I love being his aunt, and I give him lots of cuddles.
“I am proving people wron,g and I am a role model for people like me. Doctors said I wouldn’t talk, but now I never stop talking! You should always believe in yourself. Never give up on your hopes and dreams, be who you are, and always be happy. Just go out there and rock it!”
With her history of breaking barriers, both in fashion and advocacy, Ellie Goldstein is poised to make her mark on Strictly Come Dancing. Fans can expect charm, determination, and flair as she takes to the dance floor this September.
