Amy Dowden’s Resilience in the Face of Health Challenges
Amy Dowden’s journey has been marked by significant health challenges, including her battle with Crohn’s disease and breast cancer, which have profoundly impacted her dancing career.
Since joining the professional line-up of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, Amy has become a beloved figure on the show. However, her path has not been easy. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 19, Amy has faced ongoing health issues that have required her to take breaks from her dancing commitments.
In 2023, Amy took a hiatus from the show after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Following her diagnosis, she underwent a second mastectomy in November last year on the advice of her medical team. Despite these challenges, Amy has shown remarkable resilience, stating, “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.”
After her recovery, Amy was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2024 for her services to raising awareness about Crohn’s disease. This recognition highlights her commitment to advocacy and support for others facing similar health issues.
In 2025, Amy was paired with Thomas Skinner on Strictly Come Dancing, although their time on the show was marred by controversy regarding voting. They were the first couple to be eliminated, which was a disappointing outcome for Amy after her return.
Looking ahead, Amy and her partner Carlos Gu are preparing for their upcoming tour, Reborn 2.0, which is set to start on May 29, 2026. The duo has expressed excitement about the tour, with Amy stating, “It’s officially happening and ON SALE FROM TODAY! Who’s rrrrready for Reborn 2.0!”
Amy has also performed on a West End stage as part of their tour, showcasing her talent and resilience. Throughout her career, she has danced with various partners, including Tom Fletcher, Brian Conley, and JJ Chalmers, further solidifying her status in the dance community.
As Amy continues to navigate her career and health, her story remains an inspiration to many. Details remain unconfirmed regarding her future plans on Strictly Come Dancing, especially after the recent announcement of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman exiting the show.
