Rose Ayling-Ellis and her professional partner Giovanni Pernice have been crowned champions of Strictly Come Dancing 2021.
The EastEnders actress, 27, makes history as the first deaf contestant to win the show, while for Pernice it marks his maiden triumph in his seven years appearing as part of the pro lineup.
Ayling-Ellis beat off competition from John Whaite and his partner Johannes Radebe in the final, which had become a two-horse race after AJ Odudu was forced into pulling out through injury the day before.
"I have to say, thank you to this beautiful, young lady that made all my dreams come true," said Pernice after the result was announced. "It took me seven years to get that thing!
"You became the best dance, the best teammate I could have asked for. You are a dream Rose, so thank you for everything."
She then replied: "I just want to say you are so amazing. You pushed me to believe in myself. You are an incredible teacher, but not just that, you are a wonderful friend.
"We've gone through a lot, and no matter how busy we get, you've always got a piece of my heart, you really do."
Ayling-Ellis and Pernice had earlier earned an impressive total score of 119 out of 120 for their three routines, including a perfect 40 for a performance that featured a silent dance. body check tags ::
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