BBC Strictly star Amy Dowden's show future confirmed as replacement unveiled

Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden has had to withdraw from the remainder of the competition due to medical advice, resulting in her celebrity partner being reassigned a new dancer.

The 34-year-old Welsh professional was absent from the 2023 series as she bravely fought breast cancer. Earlier this year, the good news came through that following intense treatments, doctors reported no further traces of the illness for Amy.

Optimism reigned as the dancer received medical clearance to make her comeback on the show this season. Initially, Amy teamed up with singer JB Gill from JLS and the duo showed promise on their dance journey. Unfortunately, an urgent health concern arose when Amy 'collapsed' post-performance and required hospitalisation.

Thankfully, she's been reported as "feeling much better" but despite improvements, Lauren Oakley, another pro-dancer aged 33, filled in to perform with JB recently, reports the Express.

Now, it has been officially decided that Amy will not make a return to the dance competition due to medical counsel recommending she refrain from participating.

A Strictly representative told Reach: "Sadly, Amy Dowden MBE will not be partaking in the rest of the competition this year. Whilst Amy focuses on her recovery following a foot injury, fellow professional dancer Lauren Oakley will step in as JB's dance partner.

"The health and wellbeing of everyone involved in Strictly are always the utmost priority. The whole Strictly family sends Amy love and well wishes."

The revelation came during Monday's episode of the hit Strictly spin-off, It Takes Two. Saturday night's Strictly audience witnessed JB securing his place for the following week's competition after a stellar Couple's Choice performance with his professional dance partner Lauren, wowing both the panel and viewers.

The duo racked up a remarkable 39 out of 40 points, and the fervour for the BBC show's favourites shows no signs of waning.

In a heartfelt gesture during the show, JB paid homage to Amy by dedicating their dance to her, as he said: "For you, Amy."

Amy later expressed her profound gratitude towards fellow dancer Lauren for her last-minute involvement, stating: "I am so grateful to you Lauren. Thank you Lauren, thank you J, you too are just amazing. I just wish I was there with you."

Strictly: It Takes Two airs weeknights on BBC Two at 6.30pm and Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One.