Dancer celebrates comeback with special performance following cancer battle
Amy Dowden has expressed deep gratitude towards her Strictly Come Dancing colleagues as she makes a powerful return to the show following her breast cancer diagnosis. The 34-year-old Welsh dancer, who underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy, has recently been declared with “no evidence of disease” after medical tests.
Dowden discovered a lump the day before her honeymoon with fellow professional dancer and husband, Ben Jones. Her illness led to her missing a celebrity partner in the 2023 Strictly series. However, in the pre-recorded launch show, Dowden’s comeback is marked with an “empowering” group performance by the dancers in her honour, while the celebrity contestants are paired with their partners for the series.
Taking to Instagram, Dowden shared her emotions, writing: “Tonight I return to @bbcstrictly doing what I love most – DANCING with these talented souls.” She extended her heartfelt thanks to the Strictly team for their unwavering support and praised choreographer Jason Gilkison for creating a special routine for her return. She also thanked professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec for boosting her confidence.
In an emotional note, Dowden reflected on the significance of having her husband and family in the audience for her return, adding, “It was so special as I had my husband and family in the audience. Their first time watching me dance again! So grateful to everyone and excited for the months ahead.”
Choreographer Gilkison responded with words of pride: “So so proud of you my darling. An absolute honour to create this for you.”
Dowden has been candid about her journey with cancer, building on her previous openness about living with Crohn’s disease. Her story has inspired many, showing strength and resilience through personal trials.
The first episode of Strictly’s 2024 series will feature Dowden dancing to a medley including iconic tracks such as “We Like To Party!” by Vengaboys, “Baby Baby” by Corona, and “Get Ready For This” by 2 Unlimited.
