Amy Dowden, a 35-year-old professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has discussed how her colleague Carlos Gu played a crucial role in her decision to return to performing following her cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dowden was diagnosed with breast cancer three years prior and underwent chemotherapy and a mastectomy. When she attempted to return to the Strictly series in 2024, residual effects from her chemotherapy left her feeling lacking in confidence and questioning whether she should continue her dance career.
Dowden described being at a low point and considering stepping away from dancing entirely. However, Gu and her husband Ben Jones provided what she characterized as “tough love” and motivation that helped restore her confidence. She noted that both men were determined not to allow cancer to take away her career as it had affected other aspects of her life. Dowden has since confirmed her participation in the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing, demonstrating her commitment to resume her professional dancing activities.
Both Dowden and Gu are currently participating in the latest season of Celebrity Hunted, a show in which celebrity pairs attempt to evade capture by professional hunters. The series airs on Channel 4 and runs for two weeks with six pairs of celebrities competing. Dowden used the program as an opportunity to document the realities of living with cancer, continuing her regular chemotherapy treatments while filming. Gu, who lost his grandmother and cousin to cancer, said witnessing Dowden’s resilience during filming was inspiring and reinforced his own determination.
The Celebrity Hunted series supports Stand Up To Cancer. Both dancers emphasized how the experience highlighted the kindness of the public, with Dowden noting that people they encountered along the way had their own significant personal challenges that created connection between them. Gu described feeling humbled by the experience and recognizing what he called a substantial amount of human kindness. The program begins airing on 3 August on Channel 4.
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