Amy Dowden has expressed her disbelief and joy at a significant announcement ahead of her return to Strictly Come Dancing. The professional dancer was confirmed in April as one of the returning dancers for this autumn's ballroom extravaganza. The BBC was quick to confirm the professional line-up, with Amy being named after her previous series ended in disappointment.
The 35-year-old's stint in the 2024 edition of the BBC One dance contest, where she was partnered with JLS singer JB Gill, was unfortunately cut short due to a foot injury. However, following the BBC's confirmation of her inclusion in the professional line-up for Strictly 2025, she shared on social media: "So grateful to be back on the best show on TV for my 9th year with my Strictly family. @bbcstrictly.
"This show means everything to me. Through the highs and my all-time lows, it truly got me through my toughest of times. The show is pure magic and good for the soul. I'm feeling stronger than ever."
"The countdown begins to be back in the rehearsal room with my strictly family. Who else is counting down the days? Keep dancing! Welsh love".
She has since been spotted back in rehearsals with her fellow professionals, pre-recording the group numbers that will feature throughout the upcoming series. More recently, the dancers have met the celebrity contestants for the first time as the official line-up was confirmed.
But before her return, Amy has revealed some extra special news. Following the release of her documentary about her breast cancer journey, she's been shortlisted for an award at this year's National Television Awards.
The film, Strictly Amy: Cancer and Me, has been shortlisted in the Authored Documentary alongside Flintoff, There's Only One Rob Burrow, Molly-Mae: Behind It All and Boyzone: No Matter What.
Sharing the news on Instagram on Tuesday (August 19), a stunned Amy revealed to her followers: "I can't believe this, my documentary has made the top 5 for the national television awards @officialntas. Thank you to all who voted.
"I made the decision to allow the cameras in to follow my cancer diagnosis, surgery and treatment to show the reality of a cancer diagnosis but most importantly to raise awareness to get as many as I can to check themselves! The number of messages I still receive from those who have now started checking themselves or gone to the GP has been unbelievable and so rewarding. But also from those going through a cancer diagnosis who said they no longer feel alone.
"The votes are now open again, and all the support doesn't go unnoticed. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, # but most importantly, remember to check yourself, if you're not, who is? Welsh love always xxx #strictlyamycancerandme #ntas."
Amy's fans were delighted and flocked to comment on the star's exciting news.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC screens next month for an all-new series.
