BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden makes fans 'cry' with JB Gill 'first and last' update after return

Amy Dowden has left fans emotional as she and JB Gill shared a 'first and last update' with their follower following their first live performance on Strictly Come Dancing.

Welsh dancer Amy and her celebrity dance partner, JLS star JB Gill, emerged in the top spot on the first leaderboard of the series as week one saw all 15 of the BBC One dance contest's new couples performed.

JB and Amy were smiling from ear-to-ear as they were awarded 31 points from the judges for their waltz to When I Need You by singer Leo Sayer on Saturday night (September 21).

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Amy, who missed out on having a celebrity partner last year amid her treatment for breast cancer, said she was “so happy” after her performance during the series first live show.

The 34-year-old, who disclosed her cancer diagnosis in May 2023, which was subsequently followed by chemotherapy and a mastectomy, said: "I am so happy I could burst."

Shirley then said during her comments: "Amy, you're home where you belong and I have to say that choreography was absolutely outstanding." She also noted, reacting to JB: "You, sir are an absolute diamond and this is going to be an absolute epic partnership."

JB and Amy have since taken to social media to share a look at how their last run-through of their debut routine in the ballrom went compared to when they performed it live in the ballroom in front of the judges, their co-stars and the millions watching at home.

Alongside the post, JB wrote: "Last day of Reherasals vs First dance on the @bbcstrictly ballroom floor. Still blown away by the response and support for #TeamJAmy last night. We absolutely loved being on that floor, bringing to life what we’ve been working so hard for in the training studio!"

He continued on Sunday (September 22): "Thank you for all your messages, comments and love, we appreciate every single one. Time for a day of rest. And then it’s back to the drawing board for week two!! LET’S GO!! #strictly #waltz #strictlycomedancing #grateful #keepdancing."

And their fans and followers were quickly left emotional. @joannedunne_x said: "Absolutely smashed it J, think we’re looking at our winners right here." @sophiekerr579 commented: "Did I cry? Absolutely. Am I ready for next week? Absolutely not."

@emma_gittinsx wrote: "Absolutely stunning! You looked amazing Amy. Made me tear up seeing you back where you belong." @mdanielleshel replied: "Was beautiful… made me cry." @michele_taylor17 posted: "Aww this brought tears to my eyes! It was so beautiful and it was my late parents’ special song." @deem_wendy added: "Wow!! Very emotional dance!!! What a return for Amy…JB you are going to be amazing!!!"