Worry has mounted for Amy Dowden after she became the first professional to be eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing 2026 with her celebrity partner, Chris Appleton. The pair left the competition following the first dance off of the series, with Amy admitting it "hurt so much" to be axed.
The couple were in tears when the announcement was made, with Amy saying she was "heartbroken" to be the first to leave the show this year. Since the results show aired, viewers have voiced concerns about Amy, with many making similar remarks.
Viewers call for change
After it was confirmed Amy and Chris would leave, Strictly fan Ryan Glendenning wrote: "JUSTICE FOR AMY DOWDEN!" In a separate post, he noted: "The fact that Amy Dowden has left SCD in last place over the last two years is so sad and I really hope this isn't her last series of SCD."
The posts triggered lots of conversation, with many making the same comment. Various viewers said they want to see her thrive in the future. One said: "I think Amy is a brilliant dancer. Unfortunate she lost the dance off. She will come back stronger next year. Amy will do the group dances." Another wrote: "Agree. They need to pair her with a more promising partner next year. Hoping she stays in the show though as she's part of the reason I watch it."
Emotional farewell
A third replied: "Poor Amy. Another sharp exit!" Meanwhile, a fourth commented: "Amy deserves the world! Hope they give her a better partner next year!" Elsewhere on social media, one more noted: "The girl fights back from cancer only to be first out two years in a row. Could they not have given her someone with potential this year? I really feel for her, just feels so wrong."
Others think she will be fine, though. A different social media user wrote: "Why would it be her last year? Stop surmising stuff." Amy, 36, has since spoken out to say how "proud" she is of her dance partner, Chris, and described seeing their Strictly journey come to an end as "emotional", speaking openly about how close the pair have become.
On Instagram, she wrote: "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 added: "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. 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."
