Tom Fletcher praises 'amazing role model' Amy Dowden for not wearing wig on Strictly

Tom Fletcher has called his old Strictly partner Amy Dowden an “amazing role model” for going on the show without a wig amid her cancer battle.

Pro dancer Dowden, 33, opened up about her breast cancer diagnosis in May this year, and then just a few weeks later she shared that she had received a second cancer diagnosis.

The dancer is unable to take part this year as she goes through treatment, but recently made a surprise appearance on the show, where she embraced her newly-shaved head.

Read more: Amy Dowden reunites with 'Strictly family' ahead of next chemo treatment

McFly star Fletcher – who was paired with Dowden on the BBC ballroom show two years ago – praised her as he appeared on ITV’s Lorraine.

“Oh my goodness, I cannot tell you how proud I am,” he said.

“The fact that she chose to go on without a wig.

“Such an amazing role model for anyone going through cancer treatment.”

The pair were on Strictly together in 2021 and were the eighth couple to be eliminated from the series

Fletcher said he had “loved” competing on the show with Dowden.

“The unexpected thing was the friendship that formed, that was really special," he said.

“She is strong,” he added. “She's such an incredible person.”

Dowden started losing her hair as she underwent chemo but in September took the decision to shave off her own hair, which she said was “the hardest step so far" but a way to take back some control.

Sharing a poignant video on Instagram that showed her clipping off her long locks surrounded by loved ones, she said: “Since taking control, I feel I can now see the finish line.

“This for me was a hurdle I couldn’t even bring myself to think or speak about. I’ve done it and I’ve also crossed the half way chemo line!

Read more: Strictly's Amy Dowden says milestones 'hurt' as she turns 33 amid cancer battle

“I’m feeling empowered and positive!”

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