Amy Dowden confirms Strictly return after sharing heartbreaking health update

Amy Dowden has shared when she plans to make her return to Strictly Come Dancing following her announcement of upcoming surgery. The 35-year-old television personality, who has been a professional dancer on the popular BBC show since 2017, had to take a break after being diagnosed with cancer in May 2023. She made a full-time comeback earlier this year but was the first to be voted off alongside Apprentice star Tom Skinner. Over the weekend, Amy opened up about her harrowing battle with cancer, confessing that she initially 'feared the worst'.However, she celebrated receiving the all-clear in February 2024 and recently announced that she is set to undergo another mastectomy.

The dancer was quick to clarify that this decision was not due to a new cancer diagnosis, but rather a result of discussions with her "incredible" medical team. She also revealed when fans can expect to see her back on screen.

In a recent Instagram video, she expressed: "Hello everyone, I just wanted to come on and just say a massive thank you for the love and support, all the messages, comments I've received today."

Continuing to keep her followers informed, the Lorraine star hopes to return to the dance floor by this time next year. She added: "It's been so overwhelming, and so so kind of you all. I'm going into this really fit, really strong, really positive.

"I'm going to do all I can to get back with my Strictly family as soon as I can and I'm going to make sure I dance my way through 2026".

In a post on Instagram recently confirming the mastectomy, the Welsh star said: "As you all know, I've always been very open about my health and the care I receive. So I'd like to start by being clear that what I am about to share is not to treat a new cancer diagnosis.

"However, following a recent appointment with my incredible medical team, we've decided that I'll be having another mastectomy this week. They're confident that, all going well, I can expect a straightforward recovery. Once I have healed, I look forward to rejoining my Strictly family.

"Of course I'm going to miss not being there so much, but I will be watching from home and look forward to cheering everyone on. Thank you always for all the support."