Aug 16, 2025, 12:01 PM ET

Model with Down syndrome to join UK’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’

Ellie Goldstein, a 23-year-old model and actress, is making history once again — this time as the first contestant with Down syndrome to compete in the UK series, “Strictly Come Dancing.”

Key Takeaways:

Ellie Goldstein, a model and actress with Down syndrome, will appear on the UK series, “Strictly Come Dancing.”
Ellie was the first person with Down syndrome to appear on the cover of British Vogue.
She has worked with companies including Nike and Gucci.

The Details:

Ellie Goldstein, the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue, is taking a turn on the dance floor as she joins the UK show, “Strictly Come Dancing.”

“I’m absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year,” Ellie said. “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!”

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The Backstory:

Born in Great Britain, Ellie defied early medical expectations — learning to walk and talk, milestones that doctors told her parents she’d never reach. From the beginning, she showed that every life has value and that when given the chance, people with disabilities can thrive.

Ellie has been breaking barriers in the fashion world for a few years, working with brands like Gucci and Nike. Beyond modeling, she has written books promoting inclusivity and showing the world that ability comes in many forms. She made her television debut in June of this year.

Why It Matters:

Now, as she steps onto the “Strictly” dance floor, Ellie is sending a powerful message: every life deserves a chance. Her presence challenges the way society often undervalues people with disabilities, and it reminds us that inclusion isn’t just a buzzword — it’s about giving people the chance to shine. And it should go without saying that people who aren’t allowed to be born have no chance to shine.

Tragically, this is, more often than not, the story with babies diagnosed with Down syndrome in the womb. As previously reported by Live Action News, “About 67 percent of children diagnosed with Down syndrome before birth are aborted in the United States.”

There is a lot of work to do to change the narrative about Down syndrome, its diagnosis, and expectations for those who live with the condition.

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