Welsh dancing sensation Amy Dowden is poised for a dazzling comeback on Strictly Come Dancing this weekend, but not without a heartfelt caution from her husband, Ben Jones. Paired with The Apprentice star Thomas Skinner for this year’s BBC competition, Amy is ready to light up the ballroom after a challenging journey through breast cancer and a heartbreaking withdrawal from last year’s show due to a leg injury. However, her high-energy routine with Tom has left her husband on edge, issuing a surprising warning that has Amy both thrilled and cautious.
Appearing on ITV’s Lorraine earlier today, Amy shared the intensity of their upcoming performance, revealing, “The routine we’ve got on Saturday is so full-on, there’s no way my body could’ve handled it last year. I’m doing things I never thought I’d do on Strictly Come Dancing.” With a laugh, she added, “Even my husband said, ‘Just be careful, please,’ but Tom’s so strong!” Tom, her enthusiastic partner, chimed in, admitting they rehearsed the routine “about 150 times yesterday,” leaving him exhausted but exhilarated.
Amy’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of inspiring. In May 2023, at the age of 32, she discovered a lump in her breast just before her honeymoon with Ben. Diagnosed with breast cancer, she vowed, “I’m determined to get back on that dance floor before you know it.” Amy courageously shared her health battle through social media and a poignant BBC documentary, offering an unfiltered look at the realities of life after a cancer diagnosis. By early last year, she received the life-changing news of “no evidence of disease” and made her triumphant return to Strictly, only to face another setback when a foot injury forced her to withdraw weeks into the competition. Pro dancer Lauren Oakley stepped in to partner with Amy’s celebrity, JLS singer JB Gill.
Reflecting on her journey during a recent Lorraine appearance, Amy opened up about the emotional and physical toll of her recovery. “Two years ago, my mouth was covered in ulcers, my hair was falling out, and I was so weak,” she recalled. “I was gutted not to be able to take part in Strictly, and to see how far I’ve come since then is incredible.” For Amy, returning to the ballroom is more than a comeback—it’s a testament to her resilience. “Strictly was my goal after hearing, ‘Sorry Amy, it’s cancer.’ I told myself, ‘Get me back on the dance floor.’ Then I got back and had to pull out. I’ve worked so hard on my strength, fitness, and mental health because cancer diagnoses are tough, and there’s not enough out there about the reality of recovery.”
This weekend, Amy and Tom’s performance promises to be a showstopper, pushing her to new heights on the Strictly stage. But with Ben’s warning ringing in her ears, Amy is balancing her excitement with caution, determined to prove she’s stronger than ever. As she steps back into the spotlight, the nation will be cheering for this remarkable dancer whose courage and determination shine brighter than any sequin.