Amy Dowden, born on August 10, 1990, in Caerphilly, Wales, is a celebrated professional ballroom and Latin American dancer. Known for her exceptional talent and resilience, Amy has captured the hearts of many through her performances and inspiring personal journey.
Early Life and Passion for Dance
Amy Dowden discovered her love for dance at the age of eight. Growing up in Caerphilly, she immersed herself in ballroom and Latin dance, dedicating countless hours to refining her skills. This early dedication paved the way for a remarkable career in dance.
Competitive Dance Achievements
Amy’s competitive career is marked by numerous milestones. She became a British National finalist four times and reached the semi-finals of the World Championships in 2015. Partnering with Ben Jones, she made history by winning the British National Latin Dance Championship, becoming the first all-British duo to do so in over 30 years.
Rise to Fame on Strictly Come Dancing
Amy Dowden joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, making history as the first Welsh professional dancer on the show. Over the years, she partnered with various celebrities, delivering unforgettable performances. Some of her notable partnerships include:
- 2017: Brian Conley
- 2018: Danny John-Jules
- 2019: Reaching the finals with Karim Zeroual
- 2020: JJ Chalmers
- 2021: Tom Fletcher
Her performances were praised for their technical brilliance and emotional connection, earning her a dedicated fanbase.
Health Challenges and Advocacy
Amy’s journey has not been without challenges. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 11, she has been an advocate for raising awareness about the condition. In May 2023, Amy faced another major health battle when she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. Despite undergoing a mastectomy and chemotherapy, her courage and positivity remained unwavering. Her openness about her health struggles has inspired many and brought attention to the importance of resilience and awareness.
A Triumphant Return to Dance
Following her cancer treatment, Amy Dowden made a triumphant return to Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. Though a foot injury prevented her from participating in the 2024 series, her passion for dance remained undeterred. Amy announced the “Amy & Carlos Reborn” tour, a collaboration with fellow Strictly professional Carlos Gu, set to take place in March and April 2025. The tour promises an uplifting celebration of her resilience and love for dance.
Personal Life
In 2022, Amy Dowden married her longtime dance partner, Ben Jones. Together, they co-run the Art in Motion dance school, sharing their love for dance with aspiring performers and nurturing the next generation of talent.
Amy’s Memoir: Dancing in the Rain
Amy’s memoir, Dancing in the Rain: My Story of Hope, Courage and Resilience, offers an intimate look into her life and career. Through her book, Amy shares her journey, highlighting the challenges she has overcome and the lessons she has learned along the way. It stands as a testament to her strength and determination.
Amy Dowden’s Legacy
Amy Dowden’s journey is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and hope. From her rise in the competitive dance world to her inspiring battle with health challenges, she continues to be a source of inspiration for many. Her dedication to dance and her resilience in the face of adversity make her a true role model.
