It all became too much for the magician’s assistant when host Zoe Ball revealed messages from her mother Babs, who mentioned her late husband Paul Daniels.
The 59-year-old struggled to hold in her emotions as soon as a snap of her famous spouse was shown and her late father was mentioned.
Debbie’s family’s moving comments also had Giovanni, 27, in tears as he kept an arm around her as they sat on the sofa during the BBC show.
“Debbie was always very girly girly. Loved pretty little dresses and playing with dolls. When Debbie did her first dance, I had tears,” her mum had started.
She continued: “She went through a really tough time, losing her dad then losing Paul and for a few months she was very, very down. Then she got Strictly and her sparkle came back.
“Debbie, I just want you to know how proud I am of you and I know your dad would be doubly proud. Just go out there and smash it, love.”
The TV star looked very upset as her mum spoke and a picture was shown of her and Paul – who died last year – together.
Her sister added: “If Paul could see her now, and how well she’s done, he’d be overjoyed,” before the camera cut back to the weeping duo just hours before the final.
Many watching at home took to Twitter to say they were also upset, with two users posting: “Aw big hugs for @thedebbiemcgee #ItTakesTwo #Strictly,” and: “Awww even @pernicegiovann1 started crying #ItTakesTwo.”
“Debbie is so open and honest about how much she misses Paul. It’s so important to speak about grief. Good luck #TeamLovely #ItTakesTwo,” a third went on.
Strictly Come Dancing concludes tomorrow at 6.30pm on BBC One.
Daily Express :: TV and Radio Feed
