Amber Davies has firmly rejected allegations of a simmering feud with her understudy Hannah Lowther, following reports of backstage tensions during the Legally Blonde The Musical tour. The leading lady took to Instagram on Thursday to share a heartfelt statement, gushing over Lowther's professionalism while disclosing her own health struggles that have led to performance cancellations.
Public Rebuttal on Social Media
In a defiant move, the 29-year-old Strictly Come Dancing star addressed the rumours head-on, posting an appreciative message directed at Lowther. She wrote, 'An extra special appreciation message to @hannahlowther who has given me all the grace and space to be poorly and recover. The show is in safe hands ALWAYS.' This public display of solidarity comes after Daily Mail+ reporter Olivia Kemp suggested peers believed Lowther was 'a million times better,' sparking speculation of discord.
Health Issues Force Show Cancellations
Davies revealed she is currently on sick leave, battling a persistent flu that has lingered for over a month. She explained, 'I'm very much doing everything I can to be back on stage as soon as I can! I haven't had the flu since Covid which was 6 years ago!! So I knew it was coming to get me at some point.' The actress is taking antibiotics to combat a severe cough, which has impacted her ability to perform.
The production has faced significant disruptions, with Thursday's matinee at Milton Keynes Theatre cancelled just two hours before curtain-up due to cast illness. The theatre announced, 'This afternoon’s matinee performance of Legally Blonde has unfortunately been cancelled due to cast illness. All ticket holders have been contacted via email regarding alternative options.'
Understudy Steps Up Amid Cast Woes
Hannah Lowther, a TikTok favourite with 1.3 million followers, confirmed she would star in the evening performance, posting on her Instagram Stories, 'I will be playing Elle for this evenings show.' Typically, Lowther performs as Elle for Thursday matinees, but the cancellation allowed her rest time before taking on evening shows. The wider cast has also been hit by illness, with Rosanna Harris sharing she has a sore throat and Ty-Reece Stewart battling a bad cough.
Davies attributed her health decline to a hectic schedule, noting her appearances in The Great Gatsby, a last-minute Strictly call-up, and the immediate start of the Legally Blonde tour. She confessed, 'My appearance in The Great Gatsby, my last-minute call-up to Strictly and my immediate start in Legally Blonde had affected my health.'
Audience Disappointment and Support
Fans expressed frustration over the cancellation, with many having travelled specifically for the show. However, sympathies poured in for the cast, with well-wishes for a speedy recovery. The production continues to face challenges, including an injury to stand-in Daisy Twells, highlighting the pressures of touring theatre.
Despite the setbacks, Davies remains optimistic about returning to the stage, emphasising her commitment to the 'legally family.' Her public praise for Lowther aims to quash any rumours of rivalry, reinforcing a united front as the tour navigates these health-related obstacles.
