Amy Dowden has been praised for hitting back at criticism from a former Strictly Come Dancing professional. The pro dancer was heavily criticised by one of the show's former stars Brendan Cole, who said Amy was "not up to the challenge" of being a pro.
Amy has been on the show for years, taking brief breaks from the programme after undergoing a mastectomy and also another break from the show when she collapsed backstage, and another when she suffered a foot injury.
Brendan Cole's criticism
Giving his feedback on the series, Brendan said: "To be a pro on Strictly is a big job and one has to be up to the challenge. Amy has not been up to the challenge, in my opinion. I don't think Amy's been doing a very good job for the last few years and she's been out first for the last few years. One can do the maths on that."
After the comments came to light, Amy shared a video of her miming the words 'why you so obsessed with me', adding the caption: "If you know, you know #bekind #inaworldyoucanbeanythingbekind #kindness."
Support from fans and fellow dancers
Friends and fans were quick to lend their support, with fellow pro dancers including Kai Widdrington, Dianne Buswell and her partner for this series Chris Appleton all posting in the comment section.
Amy and Chris were the first couple to leave the BBC One series, with Amy posing a poignant tribute to her new friend.
Tribute to Chris Appleton
"@chrisappleton1 I honestly don’t think words can quite 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. 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," she wrote.
"From the nerves, the laughter and the endless rehearsals to the moments when things felt tough, you gave everything you had. You showed such heart, determination and kindness, and it has been an absolute privilege to share this journey with you."
She added: "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."
"Chris, you should be incredibly proud of yourself. Thank you for every laugh, every memory, every hug and for simply being you. I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way. Love you, my friend."
In his own message, hairstylist Chris wrote: "I love u Amy. Getting to know you was the greatest gift. 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 you talent your heart because you are one of one my friend."
