Strictly's JB Gill and Lauren Oakley react to Amy Dowden exit
Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill and Lauren Oakley have shared their support for Amy Dowden following her exit from the competition.
The BBC confirmed yesterday (November 4) that Amy Dowden will be replaced by fellow professional dancer Lauren Oakley as JB Gill's partner for the remainder of the season.
The news came after Dowden was forced to withdraw from training last week after sustaining an injury to her foot, with Oakley initially stepping in as a temporary partner for Gill.
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Dowden, who returned for the show's 2024 series after missing out last year due to cancer treatment, took to Instagram yesterday to share her heartbreak over the situation.
"I'm so sad, so upset and asking why me, why now that our journey has been cut short," she wrote. "My heart right now is breaking having to pull out of the competition due to a foot injury and I know only too well 'this too shall pass' and I'll be soon better and back dancing."
Sharing her support for Dowden in the post's comments section, Oakley wrote: "This too shall pass. We’re still a team. Love you. You did the groundwork, I’ll carry your partnership forward and hopefully make you proud."
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Gill also shared his support and praise for Dowden, writing: "Heartbreaking news @amy_dowden but our moments will be forever in Strictly history, never forget that.
"Thank you for being the best teacher. Nothing but love from all of the Gill family."
Several other Strictly stars also commented on the post, including Dowden's fellow pro Dianne Buswell, who wrote: "Love you so much my Amy. Heartbroken for you."
"Heartbreaking! And as hard as this feels right now, it will never define you. So much love Amy," said Katya Jones, while Claudia Winkleman added: "We love you so much."
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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