Amy said her “heart is breaking” after it was confirmed she won’t return to the BBC show this year
Amy Dowden was flooded with support after it was confirmed she will not be returning to Strictly Come Dancing this year. The professional dancer made a return to the dancing competition this year after missing the 2023 series while undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
Amy, 34, had been partnered with JLS star JB Gill. However, a Strictly spokesperson said Amy will not return to this year’s series as she focuses on her recovery following a foot injury. JB will now be paired with professional Lauren Oakley, who had been without a celebrity this year and stepped in to replace Amy on last weekend’s show.
In an emotional update on Instagram, Amy said: “My heart is breaking right now. The past few months I finally felt like me again. Cancer was no longer the first thing I thought of when I woke up.
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“It was choreography, music choices, which dances in which order, what we needed to work on. I felt free again. My goal since hearing those words you have cancer was to get back on the Strictly dance floor.
“It’s been such a challenge to get back, one I devoted 2024 to. Which with my incredible team we got there. Something I wanted to do for myself and loved ones.
“There was no feeling like it dancing again in the ballroom with my Strictly family. Then I was partnered with the talented, kind and gentle soul JB. Every day our training room was chilled, hardworking and full of big smiles enjoying what we was creating together with a blossoming friendship.
“JB thank you for being the perfect partner back. We topped the leader board week one and continued to work so hard and thank you for being so passionate about understanding the ballroom and Latin fundamentals. For me that rumba will always be one of my favs.
“I’m so sad, so upset and asking why me, why now that our journey has been cut short. My heart right now is breaking having to pull out of the competition due to a foot injury and I know only too well ‘this too shall pass’ and I’ll soon be better and back dancing. Something I’ve had to get used to in my life.
“I’m sure at some point we will dance again JB. To all the fans, to my loved ones, my Strictly family thank you. JB I know you and Lauren will continue to ace that dance floor. I’ll forever be your biggest cheerleader.”
Responding to Amy’s post, JB wrote: “Heartbreaking news @amy_dowden but our moments will be forever in strictly history, never forget that. Thank you for being the best teacher. Nothing but love from all of the Gill family.”
Lauren Oakley also commented: “This too shall pass. We’re still a team. Love you. You did the ground work, I’ll carry your partnership forward and hopefully make you proud XXX”
Giovanna Fletcher said: “Love you so much treacle xxxx.” Tasha Ghouri said: “Sending you so much love Amy.”
