Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden Returns with "Beautiful" Performance

Strategic Insights -

Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has spoken about her return to the show after overcoming breast cancer, saying that tonight's first live performance with her celebrity partner JB Gill will be "beautiful" for her family. Dowden, 34, announced in February that she would return to the show this year, after a mastectomy and chemotherapy left her with "no evidence of disease" following tests. Speaking of her return to training and performing live, she said, "I'm absolutely loving it, JB's been the perfect comeback for me."

Key Takeaways:

  • Amy Dowden, 34, returns to Strictly Come Dancing after a year-long absence due to breast cancer diagnosis in May 2023
  • Dowden had a mastectomy and chemotherapy, with tests showing "no evidence of disease" after treatment
  • She will perform the waltz to Leo Sayer's When I Need You alongside celebrity partner JB Gill
  • Gill, 37, says their chemistry is "very strong" and credits Amy's professional judgment
  • Training has been "mind-blowing and eye-opening" for Gill, who finds ballroom dancing to be "completely alien"
  • The couple thinks their live performance will be a "big celebration" for Dowden's family, who struggled during her treatment

Statistics:

  • 22nd series of Strictly Come Dancing to air on BBC One and iPlayer at 7pm
  • Amy Dowden was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023
  • Dowden underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy, with tests showing "no evidence of disease" after treatment
  • JB Gill is 37 years old and was a member of the band JLS
  • The couple will perform the waltz in the first live show

Sources:

  • PA (2023, May) Alix Chapman
  • Strictly Come Dancing (series 22)
  • BBC One and iPlayer
  • JLS (band)