Strictly's It Takes Two abruptly halted after Amy Dowden breaks down in tears

During Wednesday's episode of It Takes Two, presenter Janette Manrara paused to deliver a message toStrictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden. This follows this week's revelation that the BBC professional, who has featured on the show since 2017, will undergo another mastectomy this week. Addressing the camera directly, Janette declared: "You may have seen the news this week that Amy will be undergoing surgery.

"From everybody here at It Takes Two, we just want to wish you, Amy, a speedy recovery. It's a privilege to relive some of the unforgettable moments you have given us so far." Janette's tribute followed a pre-recorded segment shown to BBC audiences featuring Amy reflecting on her Strictly journey in 'Best of the Ballroom', during which the 35-year-old became emotional and broke down in tears.

Following a discussion about her stint on the competition alongside McFly vocalist Tom Fletcher, Amy revealed it was Tom and his wife, Giovanna, who ultimately saved her life.

She remarked: "Strictly and my partnership with Tom ultimately saved my life. Tom and Giovanna work closely with breast cancer charities, and that is what led to me finding my tumour and was diagnosed with cancer, so without Tom, I wouldn't be here now."

Amy revealed to audiences that she completed her cancer treatment in November, but managed to participate in the final group dance in 2023. Overwhelmed with emotion, she continued: "I think, being able to perform in that number gave me that hope and that, 'I'm going to be back next year'. It was what I needed, it just was everything."

The BBC star made a triumphant return to the dance floor the following year, partnered with JLS's JB Gill. Speaking about her comeback.

Amy said, "I was back full force! It was like a strong, powerful, sexy, determined Amy. I was dressed in hot pink to represent breast cancer, and all my family were in the audience. I remember my parents crying their eyes out. It was the first time they'd watched me since everything. Amy's back where she belongs, Amy's home."

This week, Amy updated her followers about her upcoming surgery, clarifying that it was not due to a new cancer diagnosis.

Sharing details of her medical team on social media, Amy stated: "They're confident that, all going well, I can expect a straightforward recovery. Once I have healed, I look forward to rejoining my Strictly family. Of course, I'm going to miss not being there so much, but I will be watching from home and look forward to cheering everyone on."