Yahoo News Strictly's Amy Dowden to front new BBC show about cancer journey
Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden will front a new BBC documentary that will detail her journey following her cancer diagnosis.
The Welsh professional was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023, and she has updated followers with her progress ever since.
With the star now prioritising a return to the Strictly dance floor for the upcoming 22nd series, the BBC has announced an hour-long documentary to tell Amy’s story. The working title of the project is Amy Dowden: Fight of My Life.
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The film, described as “ raw, deeply personal, and honest”, will chart the dancer’s journey through her chemotherapy treatment as well as depict the support she received from both her family and colleagues.
“A year ago I was recently married and about to go on a honeymoon. It was an exciting new chapter in my life, but finding a lump on my breast changed my life,” said Amy in a statement. “I never thought at my age I would get cancer.
“Despite having family members and friends who were cancer survivors, I had no idea just what the impact on my life would be. I’ve learnt so much about myself and what a cancer diagnosis means on this journey. I hope others find hope and strength from this film, and that it encourages everyone to check themselves, no matter what age you are.”
“We’re all so grateful to Amy, her family and friends, for allowing Wildflame to be with her in what has been the most challenging time of her life,” added Paul Islwyn Thomas, CEO of Wildflame Productions. “Without Amy's openness and candour, we would not have been able to make the film we have made.
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“It's been a huge privilege for our team, led by Jacci Parry, to have been with Amy every step of the way and to be able to share her inspirational and personal story with a wide audience on the BBC. Amy truly is one amazing lady.”
Nick Andrews, BBC Cymru Wales’ Head of Commissioning, also released a statement, in which he said: “The courage and resilience Amy has shown over the past couple of years is without doubt.
“To then have the strength to also allow cameras to follow her deeply personal experience in the hope that something positive will come out of what has been such a difficult experience for her and her family is nothing short of extraordinary. This film is very inspiring.”
Amy Dowden: Fight of My Life will air on BBC One in the summer.
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.
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