Thomas Skinner sends heartfelt message of support as Amy Dowden drops surgery bombshell after BBC Strictly partnership

The professional dancer missed out on the 2023 series of Strictly as she received treatment, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and treatment for a life-threatening bout of sepsis.

But she overcame the obstacles to return to Strictly in 2024 alongside JB Gill, although injury cut her time on the series short. In 2025, she was once again returned to the ballroom with Mr Skinner.

Mr Skinner and Ms Dowden developed an unbreakable bond during their time on the series, even though the pair were the first casualties of the year.

After their elimination in Week Two, Mr Skinner has proven their friendship remains very much intact, publicly reaching out to the pro dancer after she revealed her latest health update.

Ms Dowden had assured fans that she hadn't been diagnosed with cancer again, but had been advised that she needs another mastectomy.

In an Instagram post on Monday, the 35-year-old shared: "Hey everyone, as you all know, I’ve always been very open about my health and the care I receive.

"So I’d like to start by being clear what I am about to share is not to treat a new cancer diagnosis.

"However, following a recent appointment with my incredible medical team, we’ve decided that I’ll be having another mastectomy this week. They’re confident that, all going well, I can expect a straightforward recovery."

The surgery means Ms Dowden won't be able to continue on this year's show as part of the competition's pro line-up.

However, she clarified: "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. Thank you always for all the support. Welsh love, Amy xxx."

In the hours after she shared the news, several fans, famous faces, and fellow Strictly stars flocked to wish Ms Dowden a speedy recovery.

And Mr Skinner was among them, taking to the comments of the post on Instagram to show his support for his former dance partner.

The Apprentice star penned: "Love ya Amy. Hope it all goes well. You are a legend," followed by a love heart emoji.

The sentiment was echoed by a number of other Strictly stars, including Kai Widdrington, who wrote: "All the love in the world Amy."

Meanwhile, Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse weighed in: "Wishing you all the love, prayers, and positive energy, Amy! You're deeply missed, and we're looking forward to your wonderful return!"

"Sending all the love," Karen Hauer echoed, while Dianne Buswell added: "We love you Amy." (sic)

Since leaving Strictly earlier this year, Mr Skinner has claimed that, despite the friendship he developed with Ms Dowden, he "wishes he'd never done" the show.

The reality TV star and mattress salesman faced a barrage of abuse during his time on the show, predominantly from parts of the fandom who took issue with his patriotic social media posts and opposition to wokeness.

WATCH HERE: Thomas Skinner's emotional exit speech with Amy Dowden as they become the first couple voted out of this season's Strictly Come Dancing

Mr Skinner was also accused of being "far-right" by some Strictly fans for joining US Vice President JD Vance for a barbecue in the summer, and wearing a Maga hat in a separate social media post last year.

Since leaving the show, Mr Skinner has continued to use his platform to spread messages of positivity while also highlighting his opposition to the Labour government's handling of the country.

In a lengthy post last week, for instance, Mr Skinner fumed that "illegal immigration was out of control". He's also attacked Keir Starmer for his digital ID proposals.