Amy Dowden Opens Up About Sibling-Like Relationship with Strictly Co-Star Carlos Gu
Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has candidly discussed her unique bond with fellow dancer Carlos Gu, describing their relationship as akin to that of siblings. The duo, who are set to return to the stage for their upcoming tour Reborn 2.0 next month, have a history that blends rivalry with deep friendship.
From Rivals to Family-Like Companions
In an interview with The Metro newspaper, the 35-year-old dancer revealed that she and Carlos have known each other for a long time, initially as rivals but always as friends. Amy emphasized that there was never any bitterness in their competition, and their connection has only strengthened over the years.
She shared, "He's a beautiful soul who was there for me during my cancer journey. He calls my mum and dad 'mama and papa' - we really are like brother and sister." This familial dynamic means their interactions are raw and unfiltered, with Amy noting, "We fight, we cry, we laugh, and we don't hold back. I'll come downstairs in something and he'll go, 'Who told you you look good in that?' But I wouldn't have it any other way."
Tour Details and Health Journey
The pair are currently rehearsing 24 dance routines for their tour, which will feature special appearances by Karen Carney, last year's Strictly Glitterball trophy winner with Carlos. Amy expressed excitement about an "empowering new group number" that audiences can look forward to.
This stage comeback follows a challenging health ordeal for Amy, who underwent chemotherapy and a mastectomy after a breast cancer diagnosis in 2023. She also manages Crohn's disease and has faced additional health issues, including a broken foot, sepsis, and blood clots. Reflecting on her journey, Amy described it as a "weird mix" of luck and misfortune but has remained positive throughout.
She credited a young woman named Nikki, who lost her life to breast cancer, for inspiring her with the motto "Go grab life." Amy stated, "I've promised her and myself that's what I'll do. I'm still here, my hair has grown back, I've got my energy and dancing sparkle back, and when life is hard, I'm lucky to have family and friends around me."
Uncertainty About Strictly Come Dancing Return
During the same conversation, Amy revealed that she does not yet know if she will return to the Strictly Come Dancing floor when the series resumes later this year. This uncertainty comes amid announcements from several co-stars, including Karen Hauer, the show's longest-serving female professional dancer, about leaving the programme.
Carlos addressed the situation on Kate Thornton's White Wine Question Time podcast, saying, "I know we've heard, we've all seen the news, but nothing confirmed by the BBC yet, so we're waiting. I think they're going to make the final announcement for the full cast. But like I said, being in a position of not knowing if you're going to stay or not is scary. We work so hard in our lives, but those things are out of your hands."
The dancers' bond and resilience highlight their dedication to their craft and each other, as they navigate both personal challenges and professional uncertainties in the world of entertainment.
