Strictly Come Dancing fans were heartbroken as Vito Coppola announced he will miss the rest of the live tour. The Italian dancer was set to reprise his partnership with Sarah Hadland on the nationwide tour.
However, he suffered an injury which forced him to miss the opening dates in Birmingham. Vito was hopeful he would be able to return to the show in Sheffield and managed to return for one date.
He suffered another setback which meant he missed the shows in Liverpool this week. The ECHO was in attendance as Janette Manrara announced he would be replaced on the lineup by fellow professional Nikita Kuzmin.
She said: “As you can see we’re missing Vito, he is unable to dance tonight so Nikita has very kindly stepped in.” Vito has now confirmed he will be unable to return for the rest of the tour as he continues to nurse his back injury.
He took to Instagram last night and issued a message to Miranda star, Sarah, who he has nicknamed Trilly. He said: “This is the way I would like to remember this tour Trilly.
“Even though I won’t be able to be with you on the Strictly Arena Tour, we had the chance to dance one more time together and it has been as always super beautiful and memorable
“Let’s always see the glass half full and to stay, keep and spread positivity We have closed the circle of our journey Trilly and I am glad that we have lifted the trophy together.
“Team Tiramisu for one last time. I will keep following you and cheering for you, as always and I will come to watch the show every single time I can, so don’t worry, you won’t get rid of me. “I promised you that I will take more care of me and my body and I want you to promise me that you will always stay the same enthusiastic, super active, smiling and jumpy person I have met few months ago, before this incredible experience started… keep shining Trilly, you are full of life. “You are a beautiful person, an amazing woman and the best mom. you know that I Mean It!!! Love you tiny little Trilly. Good luck to everyone and don’t have too much fun without me. jokiiiing…Have the best time and Enjoyyyy. “Thanks to you all beautiful people, for the support, for the lovely messages and for everything you constantly do for me. You make me feel loved and warmly welcomed. Keep Danciiiiiiing.”
Vito added: “Even though I am not able to lift and dance full out during an entire show, the recovery is going well and I am giving my best in order to be back soon and stronger!!!
“In the meantime I will see everyone in Manchester, Nottingham and London, as I will be present for the “dance with us” @dancewithshirleyandvito classes. Thank you everyone for your support and love “
Sarah Hadland took to the comments and issued a message of support as she said: “Love you Vito.” Followers were gutted after the post as they were looking forward to see Vito on the tour.
Susan said: “Oh Vito, me and my two boys are so gutted we won’t see you dance in Manchester at the weekend. but it’s more important to us you fully recover so you can get back on that dancefloor very soon.”
Alison added: “m so sad Vito that I won’t be able to see you and Trilly dance together on tour, but it’s so important that you take care of yourself and fully recover. Sarah is incredible and Team Tiramisu were the best, such a special friendship “
Laura commented: “My heart is genuinely shattered [heartbroken emoji] not having my favourite dancer there on Saturday ” Chantel added: “Vito I am so sorry I didn’t get to see you in Liverpool.
“Your health is more important. Look after yourself. Lots of love and positive vibes.” Georgia said: “can’t believe i won’t be seeing you on my birthday saturday. my favourite always, heartbroken”