Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has delivered an uplifting health update, speaking publicly for the first time about her recovery following a recent mastectomy.
Appearance on The One Show
The 35-year-old Welsh dancer appeared on BBC's The One Show on Friday, where she discussed her progress with presenters Alex Jones and Clara Amfo. The surgery took place just three weeks prior to her television appearance.
When asked by Alex Jones how she was feeling, Amy responded positively, stating, "Do you know I'm feeling really well. Thank you." She went on to elaborate on her recovery, explaining, "The first week to 10 days, a bit rough, but every day feeling better and stronger."
Recovery and Future Hopes
Amy Dowden, who has been part of the Strictly professional line-up since 2017, was clear that this latest operation was not due to a new cancer diagnosis. She had previously announced in May 2023 that she was diagnosed with breast cancer and was told in February 2024 that there was "no sign of the disease".
Despite this positive news, she has continued to require medical treatment. Her primary focus now is on a full recovery. "I'm just itching now to go back on the dance floor when I'm fully recovered," she shared. "Obviously, I'm not gonna rush it, but yeah, doing really well."
The presenters were full of praise for her appearance, with Alex Jones remarking, "You look a picture of health. As always," and Clara Amfo adding, "Eyes are sparkling. So delighted to have you here."
Impact on Strictly Come Dancing
Earlier this year, Amy was confirmed as a main dancer for the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing. She was partnered with The Apprentice star Tom Skinner, but the pair were the first couple to be eliminated from the competition.
While professional dancers usually remain in the series to perform in group routines, Amy was forced to withdraw completely to undergo her operation. In an Instagram post earlier this month, she explained the decision, stating her medical team was "confident that, all going well, I can expect a straightforward recovery."
She expressed her intention to "rejoin my strictly family" once healed, though she has since revealed she is aiming for a comeback in 2026. Her departure from the current series coincides with a period of uncertainty for the show, as both main presenters, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, have confirmed they are leaving.
