Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden is making her much anticipated return to the dance floor with her celebrity partner, JLS star JB Gill, after her devastating breast cancer battle – and she couldn’t be more excited.
Amy, 34, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in May 2023 after finding a lump the day before her honeymoon with husband Ben Jones. She took a step back from Strictly and has spent the past year undergoing a mastectomy, chemotherapy as well as fertility treatment. But in February, she shared the happy news that a health check showed there was no evidence of disease, telling fans that it was her ‘biggest accomplishment yet’.
Now, chatting to Closer ahead of the new series, which marks the BBC show’s 20th anniversary, Amy reveals that she feels like she’s back ‘home’. And she hopes that her story will give others a sense of hope and courage. Here, Amy opens up about the support she’s received from her fellow dancers, focusing on her health and her involvement with the JustGiving Awards…
What does it mean to be back on the Strictly dance floor?
It’s so surreal. I can’t believe the place I was in this time last year to what I am now. There were so many times when I didn’t think it was going to be possible. I’m just really proud of myself. I hope it gives others going through treatment hope and courage.
What’s the response been like from fans?
Absolutely incredible and so touching.
How have your fellow pros supported you on your return?
It’s been such a celebration. It’s so lush – I feel like I’m home. We’ve worked so hard over the last few weeks on spectacular group numbers. I’m just excited for the 20th year to be hitting your screens!
What advice would you give to the celebrities this year?
You’re going to be taken on a ride of a lifetime. It’s fabulous, it’s fun and it’s full of sparkle. Just embrace and enjoy every second of an opportunity of a lifetime. And don’t take yourself too seriously – just go out there and enjoy it.
The show has been a hot topic in the news over the past few months. How have you all kept up morale?
After everything I’ve been through the past year, it’s being back on the dance floor with my best friends. All I can say is the welfare I received last year was outstanding. Production was ringing me every week and finding ways to keep me informed. I’m just so grateful to the BBC for the support and love they gave me all the way through last year, and then to welcome me back with open arms this year and doing everything they possibly can to ensure I’m just living my best life.
What do you think makes the show so successful after so many years?
It’s not just a family on the dance floor, it’s off the dance floor. From wardrobe to the make-up team, we are one big family.
You’re also hitting the road with your co-star, Carlos Gu, for your tour, Reborn, next year…
We cannot wait. I think it’s going to be a real celebration of both of our journeys. It’s something I really missed this past year. We’ve got so many creative ideas, we can’t wait to share our story and celebrate our passion for dance and our friendship.
You’ve got a busy schedule – how do you take time for yourself and your mental health?
I think just taking some time every day, whether it’s having a bath or going for a walk with my husband or friends. I always try to make sure I take some time for me and what I love most.
You and Ben marked your two-year wedding anniversary in July. How did you celebrate?
We went on holiday to Portugal. You learn after a cancer diagnosis not to take anything for granted and you make the most of every milestone in life because tomorrow is never guaranteed.
You’ve also been part of the judging panel at the JustGiving Awards. That must have been rewarding?
It was so inspirational. I’ve had my own journey with cancer and also Crohn’s disease and it’s down to people who do fundraising and incredible things that I’ve had the treatment that I’ve received over the years. It was an honour and a privilege to be part of it.
What’s been your biggest personal takeaway from being involved?
That I can always do more. I’m a proud ambassador for Crohn’s & Colitis UK and CoppaFeel! and it made me go away and made me think of so many other things I could be doing to raise money. And you just realise what true heroes we have out there and how people go beyond and above for others.
The GoCardless JustGiving Awards will take place at London's Roundhouse on 18 September. To find out more, visit Just Giving.