Amy Dowden Breaks Her Silence After She And Chris Appleton Become Strictly 2026’s First Eliminated Couple — As The Professional Dancer Shares An Emotional Message Following Their Abrupt Exit

Comprehensive Deep-Dive: Amy Dowden Breaks Silence After Heartbreaking First Elimination on Strictly Come Dancing

Professional dancer Amy Dowden shared an emotional tribute following a devastating start to the latest Strictly Come Dancing series, after she and her celebrity partner, celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, became the very first couple eliminated from the competition.

Amy and Chris Baywatch Strictly

1. A Sudden Exit and Deep Bond

Despite pouring her heart into the opening weeks of the competition, Amy and Chris found themselves facing an early exit, sparking an outpouring of support from fans and fellow cast members alike.

Chris Appleton was unable to snip his way to success on Strictly Come Dancing as he became the first contestant to be eliminated on Sunday night with partner Amy Dowden

  • “I Know Heartbreak Only Too Well”: Taking to social media following the results show, Amy opened up about the emotional sting of the early elimination, writing: “I know unfortunately only too well heartbreak. But I also know that the reason it hurts so much is because of the friendship and bond we’ve formed and that’s something that isn’t going anywhere.”
  • Praising Her Partner: Amy commended Chris for his incredible dedication throughout the rehearsal process, thanking him for the laughter, memories, and for “simply being you”, while signing off affectionately as his “Welsh princess”.

    The hair stylist, 43, who hails from Leicester but is now one of the most in-demand hairdressers in Hollywood, had to compete in the dance-off with actress Jaime Winstone, 41

2. Overwhelming Support from the Ballroom Family

Chris was quick to echo the sentiment, sharing that the absolute greatest gift of his Strictly journey was getting to work alongside Amy.
  • Cast Reactions: Fellow professional dancers and celebrity contestants flooded the comments section with comforting words. TV personality and dog expert Graeme Hall wrote, “Oh Amy. You’re a beautiful dancer and an amazing person. Just know that the place won’t be the same without your beaming smile,” alongside messages of solidarity from stars like Lacey Turner and John Nellis.