Amy Dowden recently shared a poignant message after her premature departure from the popular TV show, Strictly Come Dancing, expressing her feelings of disappointment for “letting them down.” Amy, who partnered with former Apprentice participant Thomas Skinner, faced a challenging journey as she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023, just a day before her honeymoon with Ben Jones.
After undergoing a mastectomy and IVF treatment, Amy received encouraging news last year when she was declared cancer-free following a health check that showed no signs of the disease. Despite her aspirations to be a voice for cancer survivors on this season’s Strictly, Amy and Thomas were the initial couple eliminated from the competition, leaving her disheartened by the outcome.
During the Women of the Year Awards, Amy expressed her disappointment at being eliminated from the show, emphasizing her desire to represent cancer survivors and feeling a sense of responsibility towards them. She also highlighted her wish to showcase the possibilities and resilience of individuals post-cancer diagnosis through her participation in the competition.
Amy and Thomas performed a vibrant salsa routine to Dizzee Rascal’s Bonkers before their departure, but the judges decided to save another pair, Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova, leading to their exit from the show. Amy later praised Thomas for his support and friendship throughout the competition, emphasizing the value of health, happiness, and life beyond achievements like winning a glitterball trophy.
Thomas acknowledged his enjoyable experience on the show and commended Amy as an exceptional dance partner, while Amy hinted at her choice for the potential winner of the 2025 Strictly competition, naming former footballer Karen Carney as her dark horse for the title.
Looking ahead, Strictly fans can catch the next episode on BBC One on Saturday, October 18, from 6.30pm to 8.35pm.