Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has responded to criticism from former Strictly dancer Brendan Cole, calling his remarks "personal" and saying she will not give him "the attention he so desperately craves."
Amy, 36, appeared in the latest series of the BBC show alongside celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton. The pair became the first to be eliminated, prompting Brendan, 50, to publicly criticise her performance, claiming she had not "been up to the challenge" in "the last few years."
Amy's response to Brendan's remarks
Speaking to Closer magazine, Amy, who returned to Strictly in 2024 after overcoming stage three breast cancer, said: "I'm sad it was so personal. It wasn't just about the dancing, it was personal. But I don't want to give him the attention he so desperately craves."
She also expressed disbelief that Brendan had not contacted her after his remarks generated headlines, adding: "Why not pick up the phone and check how I was after those headlines? I haven't heard from him, but it's fine. I don't expect anything else."
Her cancer journey and recovery
Amy was diagnosed with cancer in 2023 after discovering a lump while on honeymoon with her husband Ben Jones. Following treatment, including a mastectomy and chemotherapy, she fought her way back to the dance floor, overcoming sepsis and managing Crohn's disease, which she has lived with since she was younger.
While overcoming cancer, she contributed to fundraising efforts for others living with Crohn's disease and received an MBE from King Charles in recognition of her efforts.
Ongoing health and resilience
In August, portions of her cancer treatment were shown to viewers during a series of Celebrity Hunted, in which she attended hospital for preventative treatment alongside her fellow dancer. Amy told the Independent she does not allow the experience to affect her spirits, explaining: "I don't really find it hard now revisiting it because I'm at the hospital once a month. It's part of my routine now. I celebrate now how far I've come, how strong I feel, how healthy I am, and I'm just grateful really, and honoured to feel this way."
