Strictly's Amy Dowden to return for grand final

Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has provided fans with an encouraging update regarding her involvement in the upcoming BBC dance competition. The 35-year-old revealed to her fans that she'll be making a return to performing, though under carefully managed conditions.

Speaking enthusiastically to her 728,000 followers from the back of a car, Amy announced that she will be taking part in the grand final which will be aired on BBC this Saturday, December 20. The dancer has been recovering following her second mastectomy surgery which took place in early November.

Amy shared the video this morning, Tuesday, December 16, saying: "I'm definitely smiling today. After advice from my consultant yesterday, I can be a part of the routine dance this week." 

She reassured supporters "not to worry" and pledged she "won't be overdoing it", confirming she was already heading to rehearsals.

Amy expressed, "as you know, I've missed it so so much," before outlining the important restrictions she must follow.

She continued: "Obviously, I can't be lifted and I can't be lifting. I have to take everything so gradually and at a pace, because it has been six weeks now since my surgery.

"I am only going with my doctor's advice and it is different for every single patient.

"But I am super, super happy and I don't care how small my part will be. I'm just so pleased to be back on the dance floor in some way or form."

"The grand final is always such a special week and it's so good to be a part of. Everyone comes back, and there's a huge buzz and a lot of energy. So yeah, I really didn't want to miss out."

Amy then shared with her followers that she has "already done all physio stretches".

She explained: "I've been up since the crack of dawn to make sure. I have to wear my compression bras.

"But yeah, I'm just super happy. However big or small, to be part of it at all I am just so grateful. I'm so glad to be back."

The Strictly Come Dancing professional received a breast cancer diagnosis in May 2023 before being given the all-clear the following February. Several weeks ago it was announced that she would require a second mastectomy.

She emphasised, however, that the operation is "not to treat a new cancer diagnosis" but followed discussions with her "incredible" medical team.