Amy Dowden’s Resilience in Dance
Amy Dowden, a prominent dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has shown remarkable resilience in the face of significant health challenges, including a battle with breast cancer and a long-term struggle with Crohn’s disease.
Since joining the professional line-up of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, Amy has become a beloved figure in the dance community. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 19, she has navigated the complexities of her health while maintaining a successful career.
Amy took a break from the show in 2023 after her breast cancer diagnosis, which led to a second mastectomy in November of that year on the advice of her medical team. Fortunately, she has been in remission since 2024, a year in which she was honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to raising awareness about Crohn’s disease.
In 2025, Amy was paired with Thomas Skinner on Strictly Come Dancing, although their time on the show was cut short as they became the first couple eliminated. Despite this setback, Amy remains optimistic about her future in dance.
Looking ahead, Amy and her partner Carlos Gu are preparing for their tour titled ‘Reborn 2.0’, which is set to kick off on May 29, 2026. The duo has already performed on a West End stage as part of their tour preparations, showcasing their dedication to their craft.
Amy expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming tour, stating, “It’s officially happening and ON SALE FROM TODAY! Who’s rrrrready for Reborn 2.0!” This excitement reflects her passion for dance and her commitment to returning to the stage.
Additionally, Amy has danced with various partners throughout her career, including notable names such as Tom Fletcher and Brian Conley. Her journey has not only inspired many but has also highlighted the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
As she continues to recover and prepare for her tour, Amy remains hopeful about her future on Strictly Come Dancing. She has 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 determination is a testament to her strength and passion for dance.
With the recent announcement of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s exit from Strictly Come Dancing, the show’s landscape is changing, and it remains to be seen how this will affect Amy’s future participation.
As Amy Dowden continues her journey, her story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of perseverance and the joy of dance.
