Amy Dowden's exit from the beloved BBC show Strictly Come Dancing has left fans and fellow dancers heartbroken. The professional dancer had to step down from this year's competition after suffering from an insufficiency stress fracture on her foot.
During her emotional appearance on the sister show, It Takes Two, Amy broke down in tears as she spoke about her departure. Reflecting on her time on the show, she expressed her deep sadness, stating, "I’m absolutely gutted," and emphasized her injury was not related to her previous health battles, including her recent fight against breast cancer.
Just last year, Amy felt the weight of the world on her shoulders after being diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. Just before her honeymoon, she discovered a lump, leading to treatments including chemotherapy and surgery. This year, she triumphantly returned to Strictly for its 20th series, eager to celebrate one year since finishing her chemotherapy.
Despite her excitement, Dowden's joy was short-lived. After missing the live show due to feeling unwell, she later found herself hospitalized, eventually leading to her withdrawal from the competition. Amy expressed her desire to perform during the live shows to mark her personal milestone, saying, "This Saturday is going to be tough because I really wanted to be dancing on the floor to show myself how far I’ve come." Her fierce determination and optimistic spirit shone through her words.
Now, as she focuses on healing, dance partner JB Gill has stepped up to the plate, forming a new partnership with professional dancer Lauren Oakley. Gill admitted it felt “strange” to have someone new by his side, as he and Oakley shared their first public conversation about the transition on Loose Women. Gill emphasized the need for Dowden to rest and recover, reiteratively stating, "The show must go on."
Lauren Oakley, who is filling the shoes of Dowden, is no stranger to the ballroom herself. Having joined Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer in 2022, Oakley has garnered experience competing on the show, most recently partnering with journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy, with whom she made it to the eighth week.
Although the switch has been challenging, Oakley expressed her eagerness to dance with Gill. "You have to get used to each other’s bodies and style beautifully,” Oakley mentioned, explaining how both dancers must adapt to different proportions, teaching methods, and dancing skills.
During the transition phase, JB took to Instagram to express his heartfelt gratitude and admiration for Amy, declaring it was heartbreaking to see their partnership come to such an abrupt halt. "Your fight and determination are second to none. I can’t wait to celebrate you back on the dancefloor,” he expressed, shedding light on his commitment to support Dowden as she recovers.
The outpouring of love for Dowden from fans and colleagues alike has been tremendous. Fellow dancers and competition participants praised her resilience and grace, with many sharing their own messages of support on various social media platforms. The entire Strictly family has shown solidarity by sending well wishes and remaining hopeful for Dowden’s swift recovery.
Despite the gloomy clouds surrounding her exit, Dowden remains optimistic about her future. "I’m hoping to dance by the end of series, and obviously next year, I got my tour with Carlos – Reborn. I’m determined to get back on stage," she said with gritted determination. Dowden insists, “This too will pass,” giving her fans the strength to share her hardships without fear.
Amy and JB’s shared experience on the show, intertwined with their personal journeys, has touched the hearts of many. "It’s been incredible fun. It’s been amazing with Amy, and now of course it’s going to be amazing with Lauren, she’s fantastic," Gill remarked, capturing the mixed emotions of excitement and sadness as they tackle the competition.
For now, fans and fellow dancers hold hopes for Amy’s incredible return, as she continues to touch people's hearts with her story of courage, vulnerability, and passion for dance. Dancing may be on hold, but the flame of her spirit remains burning strong.
