JB Gill has spoken out for the first time since Amy Dowden 's departure from Strictly Come Dancing . Professional dancer Amy, 34, announced her exit from the show in an emotional statement, revealing she could no longer continue due to a foot injury. JLS singer JB, 37, will now perform with Lauren Oakley for the duration of the competition.
Breaking his silence on his partner's exit, JB reposted Amy's statement alongside the caption: "Heartbroken for you right now @amy_dowden. But like a phoenix you will rise." In her statement, Amy admitted she was "heartbroken" at having to pull out after finally feeling like herself again following her cancer diagnosis.
The Welsh performer was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023 and underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy. Due to treatment, Amy was forced to miss the 2023 series, but was delighted to learn she'd got the all-clear earlier this year. Since returning to Strictly, Amy revealed that cancer was no longer the thing she thought about first in the morning, but instead her choreography and dancing, admitting she "felt free again".
Reflecting on her partnership with JB, Amy continued: "I was partnered with the talented, kind, gentle soul, JB. Every day our training room was chilled, hardworking and full of big smiles enjoying what we were creating together with a blossoming friendship. "JB, thank you for being the perfect partner back.
We topped the leaderboard week one and continued to work so hard. Thank you for being s.