Amy Dowden’s Resilience in Dance
Amy Dowden, a prominent figure on Strictly Come Dancing, has shown remarkable resilience in her career despite facing significant health challenges, including a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease at the age of 19 and a battle with breast cancer.
In 2024, Dowden was honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her advocacy and services related to Crohn’s disease, highlighting her commitment to raising awareness about the condition.
After taking a break from the show in 2023 due to her cancer diagnosis, Dowden underwent a second mastectomy in November of the same year, following her medical team’s advice. She has been in remission since last year, allowing her to return to the dance floor.
In 2025, she was paired with Thomas Skinner on Strictly Come Dancing, but the couple faced an early exit as they were the first to be eliminated. Despite this setback, Dowden remains optimistic about her future in dance.
Currently, Dowden is preparing for her upcoming tour titled ‘Reborn 2.0’, which is set to start on May 29, 2026. She expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s officially happening and ON SALE FROM TODAY! Who’s rrrrready for Reborn 2.0!”
As part of her tour, Dowden and her partner Carlos Gu have already performed on a West End stage, showcasing their talent and determination to continue dancing despite past challenges.
In addition to her recent achievements, Dowden has danced with various partners throughout her career, including Tom Fletcher, Brian Conley, and JJ Chalmers. Her journey has been marked by both triumphs and challenges.
With the recent announcement of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman exiting Strictly Come Dancing, the future of the show remains uncertain, and Dowden’s role may evolve as new dynamics emerge.
Amy Dowden has expressed her desire to return to the show, 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.” Her determination to reclaim her place in the competition exemplifies her resilience.
As Dowden continues to navigate her career and health, her story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.