Strictly Come Dancing’s professional dancer Amy Dowden has openly acknowledged that she may have hurried her comeback to the popular BBC dance competition. The 35-year-old Welsh dancer was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in May 2023 at the age of 32.
Her intense treatment plan included chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and a mastectomy as she courageously fought against the illness.
Amy returned to Strictly last year, partnering with Apprentice star Thomas Skinner. However, their journey was short-lived as they were the first pair eliminated from the 2025 series.
Just a month after exiting the competition, Amy underwent a second preventive mastectomy in November 2025, as reported by Wales Online.
Reflecting on her exit from the show nearly six months later, Amy admitted that her eagerness to resume her previous life may have clouded her judgment. In an interview with the i newspaper, she shared, “I went back too soon. But it’s so hard. You just want your life back.”
Amy has been open about the challenges she faced both psychologically and physically while trying to return to dancing after her diagnosis. In a December interview with the BBC, she emotionally acknowledged the permanent changes she has undergone.
As Amy continues to bravely battle cancer, she has also shared her thoughts on the possibility of motherhood. Despite marrying fellow dancer Ben Jones in 2022, her cancer treatment led to early menopause. Although they have preserved embryos, it is uncertain if Amy will fulfill her dream of becoming a mother.
In a candid conversation with the Mirror, Amy expressed her desire to have children but acknowledged the uncertainties she faces. She stated, “Obviously, there is a big, dark cloud over me. Will I become a mother? I’ve wanted to be a mummy since I was a little girl.”
Amy’s journey has been marked by resilience and determination, facing challenges head-on as she navigates her personal and professional life post-diagnosis.