Amber Davies Opens Up About Strictly Come Dancing Struggles

Former Love Island champion Amber Davies has opened up about her challenging experience on Strictly Come Dancing, where she faced intense criticism despite reaching the finals. Known originally for her reality TV victory in 2017, Davies has since made a name for herself in theatre, starring in notable productions like "9 to 5: The Musical" and "Legally Blonde."

Davies, aged 29, was called upon by Strictly producers as a last-minute replacement for Dani Dyer, who had to withdraw due to an injury. Despite her extensive background in musical theatre, she found the intense scrutiny and the competition's demanding nature overwhelming.

During a candid discussion on her podcast, Call to Stage, Davies revealed how the experience left her feeling utterly drained. "I never imagined the kind of emotional and physical toll Strictly would take on me," she shared. While she deeply appreciated the opportunity, calling it "the best thing I’ve ever done," the experience was equally exhausting. She expressed how she felt emotionally spent, especially when revisiting footage of her performances.

Davies’ Strictly journey was not just about the physical challenge but also battling harsh criticism online. Her prior West End experience led to criticism from viewers who expected her performances to be flawless. Despite the backlash, Davies spoke positively about her time on the show, acknowledging the love she had for dancing, even amid negativity from online trolls.

After finishing her Strictly stint, Davies continued her theatre work with the national tour of "Legally Blonde." However, her busy schedule took a toll on her health, prompting her to temporarily step back from her role as Elle Woods to recover from a chest infection. During this period, the role was temporarily filled by TikTok star Hannah Lowther, which sparked unfounded rumours of a feud between the two actresses.

Davies and Lowther have since dispelled these rumours, but their names continue to circulate in certain online circles, with fans comparing their performances. Despite the challenges, Davies remains committed to her craft, determined to pursue her passion for acting and dancing beyond the controversies.

Through her experiences, Davies emerges as a testament to resilience, managing both the perks and pressures of being in the public eye. Her story highlights the intricate balance required to handle fame in the digital age, where every performance is subject to instant critique. For Amber Davies, each challenge is a stepping stone to greater artistic achievements, as she carves her niche in the entertainment world.