Strictly Professional Carlos Gu Speaks on Amy Dowden's Health Journey
Strictly Come Dancing professional Carlos Gu has opened up about fellow dancer Amy Dowden's ongoing health challenges, while also revealing the deeply personal meaning behind the name of their upcoming tour. The conversation occurred during an appearance on Kate Thornton's White Wine Question Time podcast, where Gu spoke warmly about Dowden's resilience.
The Significance of Reborn 2.0 Tour
When asked about the tour name Reborn 2.0, Carlos explained it represents the personal struggles both dancers have faced in recent years. "It's about rebirths," he confirmed, acknowledging that both he and Amy have experienced significant transformations. For Dowden, this includes her public health battles, while for Gu it reflects his own fresh start after moving from China to Britain.
Amy Dowden's Health Challenges
Kate Thornton specifically referenced Amy's "ongoing challenges" during the podcast interview, to which Carlos responded: "I know, this woman, she is so strong." Thornton proceeded to acknowledge how the Strictly sensation "doesn't stop battling, trying and dancing" despite her battles with Crohn's disease and breast cancer.
Amy Dowden received a diagnosis of hormone-related breast cancer in 2023, subsequently undergoing both chemotherapy and a mastectomy. Following her treatment, the Welsh dancer has reported no evidence of disease, though she continues to attend regular medical appointments and receive ongoing care.
Recent Positive Updates
Last month, Amy shared a moving update on Instagram, telling fans she was feeling "happier, stronger and more confident than ever." Within her heartfelt message, she added: "I'm so proud of how far I've come." The dancer has been open about managing Crohn's disease, explaining: "I have learnt to listen to my body, and to notice when things start getting out of tune. I know when I need to rest, and when I have to eat simply and drink lots of water."
Carlos Gu's Personal Rebirth
For Carlos Gu, the Reborn concept reflects his own transformative journey. The professional dancer relocated from China in 2022 to take part in Strictly Come Dancing, ultimately triumphing alongside Karen Carney in last year's series. "I realised that being in this country after three years, how much it has changed me inside out, how much it changed me physically and how I see myself," he reflected. After settling into his life in Britain, the performer explained he has finally uncovered "who I truly want to be."
Uncertainty About Strictly Future
During the same podcast interview, Carlos addressed speculation surrounding his position on the Strictly Come Dancing programme, after several of his co-stars were dropped from the line-up. He commented: "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 all the cast. But like I said, being in a position 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."
Upcoming Appearances
Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu are set to appear on James Martin's Saturday Morning today from 10.30am on ITV and ITVX. Meanwhile, audiences can look forward to seeing them perform together on their Reborn 2.0 tour later this year, as Amy continues her journey back to the stage following her health challenges.
The conversation highlights the personal struggles behind public personas, with both dancers demonstrating remarkable resilience in facing their respective challenges. As Carlos noted about Amy: "No never, she's so positive" - a testament to her ongoing battle with both Crohn's disease and breast cancer recovery.
