Tess Daly halts BBC Strictly Come Dancing with update on Amy Dowden's health

Tess Daly has brought BBC Strictly Come Dancing to a sensational halt as she issues an update over Amy Dowden's health. The BBC host, who presents alongside Claudia Winkleman, spoke out on Sunday night's results show, October 27.

Just minutes into the results show, Tess paused to confirm Amy would not be there. "Before we get started, Amy is unable to be with us for tonight's show," Tess said. Amy was taken to hospital during Saturday night’s Strictly Come Dancing live show after collapsing backstage.

Dowden returned to the BBC talent show this year, having missed the previous series after being diagnosed with breast cancer. "Amy was feeling unwell, so an ambulance was called as a precaution," said a representative for Amy. "She is feeling much better and would like to thank the Strictly family for their love and concern. We request Amy's privacy in matters of health is kindly respected," reports the Mirror.

READ MORE UK tourists face 'additional surcharge' to visit major attractions in France

The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed: "We were called just after 9pm on Saturday to attend a medical emergency at Elstree Studios in Borehamwood. An ambulance was dispatched to the scene and one patient, an adult female, was taken to Barnet Hospital for further care."

Dowden did not take part in Sunday night’s results show. Her dance partner, JLS star JB Gill, posted on Instagram on behalf of the pair after they made it through to another week. “I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone for voting for us and wishing us well,” he said. “We absolutely loved our performance on Saturday night and are so grateful to be through to another week. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support.”

A fan wrote on Twitter/X: "She was doing so well after all her health issues, the way she was dancing was as if she hadn't been so very ill at all. Hopefully it is just a little hiccup but at least she is being looked after carefully."

"Hope all is well Amy as we need you," a second typed.