Strictly Come Dancing viewers were shocked to see Craig Revel Horwood burst into tears with his famous stoned face during Saturday's live final.
The 58-year-old judge, who has been on the jury since its premiere in 2004, held back tears as he complimented eventual winner Ellie Leach.
However, some viewers were convinced that Craig was actually emotional, as they claimed it was an indication that he was preparing to leave the show after recalling the very first series in his review.
The choreographer struggled to keep track after Corrie star Ellie, 22, made mistakes on her second dance and slipped off partner Vito's shoulders during a tricky lift.
Craig comforted her and said, “I'm so glad you took a risk.” And I actually think back to the first season and imagine Natasha Kaplinksy doing that and how far this program has come.
Strictly Come Dancing viewers were shocked when Craig Revel Horwood, 58, burst into tears with his famous stoned face during Saturday's live final
The judge held back tears as he complimented eventual winner Ellie Leach
With tears in his eyes, he added: “You're amazing,” prompting fellow judge Motsi Mabuse to place a hand on his shoulder.
On
While a second said: “Why did I get goodbye vibes from Craig tonight? “He's not going away, is he?”.
And, “I have a feeling Craig would leave or something.” I hope he doesn't.
Someone else mused: “I wonder if Craig is thinking about leaving Strictly Come Dancing given his emotions and his comment 'Thinking about how far the show has come' after Ellie's show dance.”
While another fan said: “The way Craig got all emotional thinking back to season 1 of Strictly Come Dancing makes me wonder, is this his last season?” He's mentioned it a few times this year and I'm worried about him leaving…”
Despite the hiccups, Ellie and Vito were crowned this year's winners after the brilliant live finale.
At 22, she became the show's youngest ever winner when she edged out Bobby Brazier and Layton Williams after each couple performed three dances for the judges.
The choreographer struggled to keep track after Corrie star Ellie, 22, made mistakes on her second dance and slipped off partner Vito's shoulders during a tricky lift
However, some viewers were convinced that Craig was actually emotional as he prepared to leave the show after recalling the very first series in his review, making the finale his final appearance (LR) Bruno Toniloli, Arlene Phillips , Len Goodman and Craig during the first season
The emotional star was referring to Natasha Kaplinsky, who won the show's first season (pictured with partner Brendan Cole).
Viewers on social media were disappointed at the suggestion that he was saying goodbye
Ellie and Vito, who are rumored to be a couple, were both stunned when their names were announced and the soap star's family broke down in tears as they watched from the studio audience.
The overwhelmed duo held back tears as they hugged each other before speaking to presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
“I really can't believe this,” a stunned Ellie murmured, before exclaiming that this was the first time she had seen 31-year-old Vito cry.
'This is for you!' Ellie told her partner, who said the win was just the icing on the cake before branding her a “diamond”.
They lifted the glitterball trophy as pyrotechnics sparked and confetti fell from the ceiling as they were lifted onto the shoulders of their former competitors.
Despite the hiccups, Ellie and Vito were crowned this year's winners after the brilliant live finale
At 22, she became the show's youngest ever winner when she edged out Bobby Brazier and Layton Williams after each couple performed three dances for the judges
Ellie and Vito, who are rumored to be a couple, were both stunned when their names were announced and the soap star's family burst into tears as they watched from the studio audience
The pair impressed throughout the finale, performing a Pasa Doble, a Show Dance and finally an American Smooth.
They received a full 40 points in the final of the three competitions, with judges raving about the actress' “growth” and burgeoning confidence during her time on the show.
The exercise was deemed “flawless” with Craig, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke scoring 10 points each.
Later, speaking to co-host Claudia, they struggled to contain their emotions as Vito said: “For me, Ellie is Strictly,” before wrapping his arms around her and saying: “She's my winner anyway!” .
Their uber-hot Pasa Doble opened the show as contestants in skimpy costumes received an impressive 39 out of 40 and a standing ovation.
Again, the judges were full of praise as they enjoyed the former soap star's progress over the course of the series
STRICTLY COME DANCING 2023: THE PROFILES OF THE PARTICIPANTS
Layton Williams
Age: 28
Profession: actor
Layton says: “I'm absolutely delighted to confirm that I'll be taking part in the UK's most famous dance competition!” It's time to take it to the ballroom. I really enjoy learning new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!'
Age: 22
Occupation: Coronation Street star
Ellie says: “It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to be doing Strictly!!” It’s always been a dream of mine so I guess dreams really do come true!!!!”
Age: 20
Occupation: EastEnders star and model
Bobby said: “I'm so excited to be part of the Strictly line-up that I can't wait to start training like a professional dancer and add some moves to my repertoire.” “I'm excited “Looking forward to performing in front of everyone.”