BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Claudia Winkleman issues Amy Dowden 'return' update

Strictly Come Dancing host Claudia Winkleman addressed Amy Dowden's absence seconds into the show - and revealed she would return to the dancefloor in the future. Amy was devastated after confirming she would no longer be able to take part in the BBC competition with partner JB Gill.

It comes after she collapsed and was taken to hospital following a live show on October 26. The 34-year-old dancer was rushed to hospital as a “precaution”, but it was later revealed she had sustained a stress fracture in her shin, which requires several weeks of rest.

As the show kicked off, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman addressed her absence as they issued a statement to viewers.

READ MORE:BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Carlos Gu breaks silence on fall out with Nancy Xu and confirms 'argument'

READ MORE:BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Anton Du Beke blasts pro for 'getting on my nerves' and says 'most disappointed'

Read more Strictly's Carlos Gu breaks silence on Nancy Xu fall out and confirms 'argument'

Tess said: "Before we get started, our lovely Amy Dowden has had to withdraw from this year's competition due to injury so Lauren will be stepping in and dancing with JB for the rest of his time on the show."

Claudia added: "Amy, everyone at Strictly is sending you so much love and we cannot wait to see you back on this dance floor, very very soon."

Speaking to Amy directly, Tess said: "Lots of love from us all to you." Nine celebrities are now left in the hit BBC competition as it hits its halfway mark.

Following two weeks of themed episodes, the BBC show returned to its normal episode structure on Saturday night.