STRICTLY COME DANCING: FIRST LOOK AT LAUNCH SHOW AS AMY DOWDEN RETURNS TO BALLROOM

Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancer, Amy Dowden MBE, will make her much anticipated return to the Ballroom floor for the 20th year of the nation’s favourite dance show. To mark her momentous return, there will be a special, celebratory group dance featuring all of the Professional Dancers which will air in the launch show this Autumn.  

The stunning Quickstep routine will see Amy front and centre as she dazzles the audience, alongside her fellow Professional Dancers. The empowering routine will exude glamour and is the perfect way to welcome Amy back for the 22nd series of Strictly Come Dancing, following her breast cancer diagnosis in May 2023. Amy’s husband and family were watching on in the audience at Elstree Studios. 

The routine was choreographed by Jason Gilkison and is danced to a medley of Training Season by Dua Lipa, Busy Earnin’ and Keep Moving both by Jungle, and Candle Flame by Jungle and Eric the Architect, as performed by the wonderful Dave Arch and his band.  

Amy Dowden says: “I am so excited for every element of being back with my Strictly family. I am so grateful to get this opportunity, especially as it’s such a special year for this legendary show. It feels like it’s my first year again...

"I’m buzzing to see the whole team, for costumes, for dance routines, to meet the celebrities, the judges. Everyone’s laughing at me because I am just smiling constantly. I’d like to dedicate this dance to my pink sisters who have supported me through the past year and to all those currently facing cancer.” 

Sarah James, Executive Producer of Strictly Come Dancing says: “We are all so incredibly happy that Amy is back in the Strictly Ballroom. She will bring her sparkle, passion for dance, creative choreography and Welsh charm. Welcome back Amy, let’s make it the best year yet!” 

Jason Gilkison, Creative Director of Strictly Come Dancing and choreographer of the Quickstep number says: “It was an absolute pleasure to choregraph this very special, empowering and strong routine celebrating Amy’s return. She – and all of the Professional Dancers – are a complete joy to work with, the best at their craft, and we are lucky to be able to share their skills with the nation, particularly with this celebratory dance.” 

The multi-award-winning entertainment show, produced by BBC Studios, will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer for its new series this Autumn. As Strictly celebrates two spectacular decades of dance, this series promises to be extra special with even more glitz, glamour and unforgettable performances.