Vito Coppola has credited his Strictly Come Dancing partner Fleur East for 'saving' him in an emotional show of support for the former X Factor star during Sunday's semi final.
Prior to this weekend's crunch live show, Fleur and Vito had been in the bottom two three times, but were hoping to defy bookies odds and experts' predictions by escaping the dance-off and sail through to next week's final, without having to battle to keep their place in the BBC contest.
The couple had the job of kicking off Sunday's Strictly semi with a powerful paso doble to Moloko track The Time is Now and got off to a strong start, scoring 35 out of 40 for their first routine. Fleur and Vito were back in the ballroom later on in the evening to perform a Charleston and it was after that dance, that Vito opened up about Fleur 'saving' him. When asked by host Claudia Winkleman why the Sax singer deserved to be in the final, the Italian pro remarked: "Fleur is one of the best people I've ever met in my life." He added: "She is so humble, a pure soul, and she doesn't know it, I have never said this but she saved me from my tough period I had.
READ MORE: Motsi Mabuse wants to 'bring back' Strictly star after exit dispute
"She doesn't even know this but I couldn't made it without her. She is so brave. She practices until 10 and she never says no."
Claudia didn't ask Vito to elaborate on what he was referring to but Strictly viewers at hone were quick to react to his confession. Taking to Twitter, one posted: "fleur saved vito from his ‘tough period’ this man," along with a series of crying emojis.
Who do you want to win Strictly? Let us know in our poll below:
*Helen Skelton leaves Strictly judges with 'concern' in semi final
*Claudia Winkleman causes Strictly 'panic' with semi final announcement
*Girls Aloud stars reunite to support Nicola Roberts at Strictly Christmas special
*Jill Scott makes 'plea' to I'm A Celebrity co-star before reunion
