Former Emmerdale actress has praised her fiancé Gorka Marquez for 'saying what everyone's thinking' after the professional dancer halted Saturday night's Strictly Come Dancing to address the 'difficult time' his partner Helen Skelton has been having.
After they had performed their paso doble on week four of the Saturday night show and receiving their comments from the judges, Helen and Gorka joined host Claudia Winkleman. It was then that Gorka took the opportunity to address the confidence issues Helen has been having.
Just as Helen was paying tribute to her mum and dad, Gorka stepped in and, with his arm around her, the former finalist said: "Can I just say something? I know you've been having a difficult time and you've been...you may feel like you're not beautiful or good enough or anything, but if you don't believe in yourself, I believe in you; everybody here believes in you."
Read more: Pregnant girlfriend of Strictly's Helen Skelton's ex Richie Myler asks people to stop judging her
Claudia then interrupted: "We all believe in you," as Helen's Strictly co-stars cheered around her, forcing her to cower away in embarrassment.
Gorka then added: "It doesn't matter how many times I say it, or the judges say it, it's only you who can make the change and is the one who can believe in you. You are an amazing woman, you're inspirational; an amazing mum and incredible dancer, so believe in yourself please."
This week it was reported that Richie Myler, Helen's ex husband, is expecting a child with his new girlfriend Stephanie Thirkill.
Gorka's partner Gemma Atkinson was full of praise for him after his speech about Helen. On Twitter, Gemma said: "When your man stands up and says what everyone’s thinking…" The tweet was followed by three 'hand clapping' emojis.
It prompted fans to rush and praise the former Emmerdale star's partner. Twitter user @LottyBorlotti said: "Gorka’s support of Helen has made a big difference to her battered self esteem. She has had endured a lot and clearly deserves better. There are good men out there, Gorka is one, and clearly you know that."
User @gg_farrell replied to Gemma and said: "Absolutely. Totally agree. She looked like she was trying so hard to smile through it all and she has kept a dignified silence. Gorka certainly said what her supporters thought."
While @Goldilocks15 said: "They both get my vote Gemma and what a man to stand up for her knowing how hurts she’s been this week. She’s an amazing dancer. Her ex-husband didn’t deserve her, she needs to stay in until the end, then maybe with Gorka’s help he’ll hopefully build her confidence up."
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