Amy Dowden has broken her silence after she and her celebrity dance partner Chris Appleton became the first couple to be eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing.
On Sunday night (October 4), the pair faced the first dance-off of the series against Jamie Winstone and Carlos Gu after their Cha Cha Cha failed to win over the judges. In her emotional exit speech, the Welsh professional admitted it "hurts so much" to be the first couple voted off the competition for the second year in a row.
An emotional Instagram tribute
Hours after the results show aired, Dowden took to Instagram to reflect on her time with the celebrity hairstylist. Sharing a carousel of snaps from their two-week partnership, she wrote: "Chris Appleton, I honestly don't think words can describe how proud I am of you. Seeing your Strictly journey come to an end is emotional, but what I'll treasure most isn't the result; it's the friendship, memories, and special moments we've shared along the way."
She continued: "I know, unfortunately, only too well heartbreak. But I also know that the reason it hurts so much is because of the friendship and bond we've formed, and that's something that isn't going anywhere. From the nerves, the laughter and the endless rehearsals to the moments when things felt tough, you gave everything you had."
'A friend for life'
Dowden added: "You showed such heart, determination and kindness, and it has been an absolute privilege to share this journey with you. Strictly may have brought us together as partners, but I truly believe it has given me a friend for life. Our dancing journey may have ended, but our friendship certainly hasn't."
The ballroom star went on to tell Appleton he should be incredibly proud of what he has achieved, thanked him for the memories and laughter and for "simply being you". She ended the post by saying: "I'll be cheering you on every step of the way. Love you, my friend. Love your Welsh princess as you call me," signing off with four kisses.
Co-stars share their support
Appleton responded in the comments, declaring his love for his dance teacher and calling the "greatest gift" of competing on the show being partnered with Dowden. He wrote: "Thank you for being more than I could have ever wished for in a dance partner because you became a friend for life. Keep shining, keep smiling and keep showing everyone your talent, your heart, because you are one of one, my friend."
Fellow co-stars also shared their heartache online, with John Nellis posting a love heart emoji and Lacey Turner a broken heart emoji. Graeme Hall left a longer message, which read: "Oh, Amy. You're a beautiful dancer and an amazing person. Just know that the place won't be the same without your beaming smile. Sending a big hug... G."
