Strictly’s Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni are favourites to win

Virgin Radio

15 Nov 2021, 10:11

Strictly Come Dancing fans are set on EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice taking the glitterball trophy home this year.

Viewers were left in stunned tears after this weekend's show, where Rose and Giovanni did a special performance with a section of silence in the middle of the routine.

Rose is the show’s first deaf contestant, and Giovanni shared a picture of the dance on his social media.

They performed a contemporary routine to Clean Bandit's hit 'Symphony'.

He captioned the adorable picture with: “A moment that will remain forever in my heart. You really are a role model.”

They received a near-perfect score of 39 out of 40, and fans swooned as the professional dancer told Rose he "loved" her after the dance.

Rose explained afterwards: “Being deaf, there’s nothing wrong — it’s such a joy to be deaf.”

Former professional-turned-judge Anton du Beke praised the pair: “That’s the greatest thing I’ve ever seen on the show. Congratulations.”

Fellow judge Shirley Ballas agreed, adding: “I’m sure the deaf community will be so proud of you. This is a number that will be etched in my heart for a long time, it was absolutely beautiful.”

One fan wrote: “No dance on Strictly has ever made me cry so many tears.”

Another added: “Rose and Giovanni’s dance has pretty much broken me.”

Before the routine, Rose announced she was dedicating their Couples’ Choice dance to the deaf community.

She also explained, "Acting is changing and it will hopefully have more diversity.”

Rose’s mum Donna said: “To know that my daughter is inspiring others, that makes me emotional because I think that’s amazing.”

The EastEnders actress is now the hot favourite to win, ahead of Aj Odudu.