Amy Dowden's Heartbreaking Exit From Strictly Come Dancing Sparks Concern and Support
This week, the beloved pro dancer Amy Dowden announced she would not be participating any longer in the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. Dowden, who made waves earlier this season as she triumphantly returned to dance after surviving breast cancer, has been forced to step back due to health challenges once again.
On November 4th, viewers were shocked to learn of Dowden's collapse backstage shortly after performing with her partner, musician JB Gill. Although the Strictly production team insisted the ambulance was called just as a precaution, Dowden later shared her devastation on social media where she expressed heartfelt gratitude to her partner JB, saying she knows he will "continue to ace the dance floor."
"My heart is breaking right now," Dowden wrote, reflecting on her struggles leading up to this moment. Her emotional post highlighted her challenge to return and dance, saying, "The past few months I finally felt like me again. Cancer was no longer the first thing I thought of when I woke up. It was choreography, music choices... I felt free again."
For many fans, hearing about her sudden absence from the competition brought back memories of Dowden's difficult fight against cancer. Diagnosed with stage three breast cancer just before her honeymoon, she took the past year to focus on treatment, including surgery and chemotherapy. During her battles, Dowden was open about her health and emotional struggles, allowing fans to connect with her vulnerability. Many rallied behind her during her initial diagnosis, and this latest news has reignited supportive messages across social media.
To replace Dowden, Lauren Oakley, who has been part of the Strictly family since 2022, stepped up to join JB for the remainder of the competition. Oakley, who initially began dancing at the young age of two, has gained experience performing globally and was previously matched with news presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy. Now, she will accompany JB Gill for the couple's choice routine this week. The BBC praised Oakley's dedication and expressed hope for Dowden's swift recovery.
Neil Jones, another pro dancer, echoed sentiments of support and optimism for Dowden when he appeared on BBC's Morning Live. Speaking to host Gethin Jones, he acknowledged the emotional impact on performers who are unable to continue with their partners. "It is really sad. I heard it on the way as I was coming up, and it's always hard because as dancers, especially when you have got partners, you want to go all the way to the end," he explained as he expressed his solidarity with Dowden. Jones emphasized Dowden's fighting spirit, saying, "But, do you know what? Amy is a trooper. She will come back stronger and I keep saying it. Hopefully, she’ll be back soon."
The Strictly Come Dancing family has shared numerous messages of support for Dowden through the show’s social channels, with many followers sending warm wishes for her recovery. The BBC has reassured everyone involved with the show, stating, "The health and wellbeing of everyone involved are always the utmost priority," as they extend their hopes and good vibes to Dowden.
Meanwhile, Amy, who also deals with Crohn’s disease, took to Instagram once again to thank her supporters and undoubtedly gather strength. Using her platform to express both her pain and gratitude feels personal and stunning, pulling her followers closer to her challenges. It is evident how much this show and her partner JB's support meant to her, and the fans continue to rally behind her through this tough time.
Return for this weekend's performance, Dowden expressed hopefulness, stating, "I'll forever be your biggest cheerleader." With so many fans rooting for her, one can be certain she has the strength and support to keep on pushing through any obstacles life throws her way. Strictly Come Dancing will certainly feel the absence of the dazzling Welsh performer, but her legacy continues to resonate through the show, inspiring countless others with her story. Dowden’s dedication has captivated the hearts of viewers who have witnessed her determination and resilience on the dance floor.
