Strictly Come Dancing address Amy Dowden's absence with statement

The battle for the coveted Glitterball Trophy intensifies as the Strictly Come Dancing final draws near with nine celebrity contestants eager to dazzle the judges, hoping to achieve the first perfect 40 of the series.

Normal service resumed on BBC Strictly after a fortnight of themed spectacles, returning to the show's signature sparkle this Saturday.

The opening sequence saw the competitors descend the famous Strictly staircase in shimmering attire, each paired with their professional dancing counterparts.

However, viewers couldn't help but focus on Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe, the dynamic duo who survived last week's dance-off against Sam Quek. Scoring an impressive 35 points, they're geared up to capture viewers' hearts with a fiery Paso Doble performance this time around.

But as the live show commenced, Amy Dowden's surprise withdrawal from the competition due to injury took centre stage. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman solemnly informed audiences at home of her exit, reports the Mirror.

Tess announced: "Before we get started, our lovely Amy Dowden has had to withdraw from this year's competition due to injury so Lauren will be stepping in and dancing with JB for the rest of his time on the show."

Echoing Tess's sentiments, Claudia said: "Amy, everyone at Strictly is sending you so much love and we cannot wait to see you back on this dance floor, very very soon."

The live audience and contestants on Strictly gave a thunderous round of applause in support of pro dancer Amy Dowden. Addressing her directly, Tess Daly extended warm wishes: "Lots of love from us all to you."

Promptly after the announcement, Twittersphere buzzed with messages for Amy as she had to withdraw from the contest, with fans quickly offering their warmth and encouragement.

One viewer said: "It's awful that Amy Dowden MBE. Is unable to continue in the competition this year I hope she gets the support she needs and comes back fighting next year we love you Amy."

Someone else commented: "If there's one thing we can all agree on, it's that Amy Dowden deserves all the luck and happiness in the world We miss youuuuuu! ! #Strictly".

"Speedy recovery Amy," was added by another supporter.

Viewers were also brimming with excitement despite Amy's absence as one person wrote: "Gunna miss Amy but Lauren is a phenomenal dancer so excited to see what her and JB do,"

Another professed their affection with: "Amy we LOVE you #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing"

While further compassion came from someone stating: "Sending so much love to @dowden_amy who sadly had to withdraw from the competition this week due to a new foot injury. JB and Lauren are now an official #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing couple. Get better soon Amy."

In the past weekend's contest, JB notched his top score alongside Lauren for their couple's choice dance, scooping up a whopping 39 points to sit proudly at the leaderboard summit together with Tasha Ghouri during Icons Week.

Discussing Amy's recent departure from the show, JB shared with the Loose Women panel: "It's one of those things, of course, no one would've ever wished for an outcome like that, but the show must go on and you have to deal with it. The most important thing for us is that Amy gets better and gets time to rest."

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday on BBC One from 6:35pm.