BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans 'gutted' over Amy Dowden as co-stars rush to support

Amy Dowden has been flooded with support from her co-stars after her time in the current series of Strictly Come Dancing came to a premature end.

The professional dancer said her 'heart was breaking' as she was forced to pull out of the BBC One dance contest where she'd been competing alongside her celebrity dance partner, JLS star JB Gill.

The pair were going from strength to strength in the competition when Amy suddenly "fell ill". It was previously revealed that the dancer began to feel unwell after her performance with the singer and presenter and was rushed to hospital during the show's Halloween special at the end of last month.

READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill breaks silence on 'heartbreaking' Amy Dowden exit

It forced her to miss the week six results show followed by a week of rehearsals. Amy, therefore, didn't perform during the latest live show on Saturday night (November 2), and Lauren Oakley, who does not have a celebrity pairing on this year's series of the BBC One dance competition, instead stepped.

She rehearsed with JB before joining him to perform the live couple's choice routine to a Bruno Mars medley during Strictly's first-ever 'Icons Week', which saw the pair bag JB's first 10s of the series, resulting in a near-perfect score of 39 out of a possible 40 points.

But Amy's future in the hit dance show this year was confirmed during Monday night's (November 4) edition of Strictly spin-off It Takes Two. Host Fleur East read out a statement from a Strictly Come Dancing spokesperson which said: "Sadly, Amy Dowden MBE will not be partaking in the rest of the competition this year.

"Whilst Amy focuses on her recovery following a foot injury, fellow Professional Dancer, Lauren Oakley, will step in as JB’s dance partner." The spokesperson added: "The health and wellbeing of everyone involved in Strictly are always the utmost priority. The whole Strictly family sends Amy love and well wishes."

Amy went on to share her own statement on social media which began: "My heart is breaking right now. The past few months I finally felt like me again. Cancer was no longer the first thing I thought of when I woke up..."

And her Strictly co-stars were quick to flood her with messages. Gorka Marquez said: "Sending you all the love @amy_dowden." Jowita Przystal echoed: "Sending you lots of love @amy_dowden." Claudia Winkleman commented: "We love you so much." Motsi Mabuse shared: "Dear Amy, your courage and strength inspire us all. Taking this step to focus on your health is the most beautiful act of self-care and resilience.

"Know that the entire Strictly family and everyone who loves you are with you every step of the way. We miss you deeply on the dance floor, but your well-being is what matters most. Sending you all my love, support, and strength as you take this time for yourself. Can’t wait to see you shining bright again when you’re ready. Love, Motsi." Dianne Buswell added: "Love you so much my Amy. Heart broken for you."

And fans also shared how 'gutted' they were for the star but supported her in putting her health first. @helencat82 said: "Ohhhh darling Amy I’m so sorry and really gutted for you but needs must…. you’ll be back soon stronger than ever - you’ve got this girl take it easy and god bless."

@abersoch1970 wrote: "Sending you lots of love for a speedy recovery. Strictly won't be the same without you." @sophie_bellwood12 replied: "Sending you so much love Amy. The greater your storm, the brighter your rainbow." @cariad.cook added: "You truly are the strongest person. sending you SO much love & strength!!"