Amy Dowden Opens Up About Strictly Come Dancing Future Following Health Struggles
Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has spoken candidly about her potential return to the BBC ballroom show, following a gruelling health ordeal that included a battle with breast cancer. The Welsh dancer, who has been a professional on the programme since 2017, revealed her heartfelt determination to make a comeback, driven by a personal milestone.
Overcoming Adversity and Aiming for Blackpool
In an interview with The Metro, Amy Dowden expressed her desire to return to Strictly Come Dancing if asked back, with a specific goal in mind. She stated, "If I'm asked back, I'd love to get to Blackpool on Strictly to prove to myself that I'm back to where I was before cancer." This ambition highlights her resilience after facing significant health challenges over the past few years.
Her journey has been marked by obstacles, including stepping away from the 2024 series due to illness during a promising partnership with JB Gill, following her treatment for stage three breast cancer. The treatment involved chemotherapy and a mastectomy, yet she made a courageous return last year, though her pairing with Thomas Skinner ended in early elimination.
Emotional Health Update and Advocacy
Recently, Amy Dowden shared an emotional update on her health via Instagram, posting a powerful comparison photograph. One image showed her during intense fortnightly chemotherapy sessions, while another captured her current state, with a caption reading, "This was me during intense, tough fortnightly chemo, and this is #thisismenow - feeling happier, stronger and more confident than ever."
She used the platform to advocate for breast cancer awareness, noting that almost one million people in the UK are living with or beyond the disease. Amy urged survivors to share their stories to highlight the true face of breast cancer, supporting the charity Breast Cancer Now in its mission towards a future where everyone with the illness lives well.
Future Aspirations and Professional Changes
Looking ahead, Amy Dowden outlined her long-term aspirations within the Strictly Come Dancing universe. She mentioned, "I'd love to enjoy my tenth year on Strictly, then do some presenting down the line and one day maybe even join the judging panel." When questioned about her potential judging style, she described herself as fair, honest, and sympathetic.
Meanwhile, the BBC has yet to announce the professional dancers for the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing, with confirmations that Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Luba Mushtuk will not return. Karen Hauer reflected on her 14-year tenure, stating it was the right time to close that chapter and pursue new projects, while expressing gratitude for the life-changing experience.
Health Progress and Ongoing Challenges
In February 2024, Amy Dowden received positive news when scans showed no evidence of disease, though she remains under medical supervision while in remission. Beyond her cancer battle, she continues to manage Crohn's disease and has previously overcome other health issues like sepsis and a broken foot.
Amy Dowden can be seen on Celebrity Bridge of Lies today at 5.40pm on BBC One, as she continues to engage with audiences beyond the dance floor.
