Amy Dowden responds to Brendan Cole's criticism of her Strictly ability

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 11:13 · Archive

Strictly professional Amy Dowden has responded to ex-pro Brendan Cole's claim that she is not up to the challenge after her early elimination.

Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden, 36, has responded to criticism from ex-pro Brendan Cole following her elimination as the first professional out of this series. Cole, who was on Strictly from 2004 to 2017, claimed Dowden was 'not up to the challenge' after she and celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton, 43, were eliminated in the dance-off last weekend.

In his comments, Cole suggested Dowden had been eliminated first for several years in succession and argued that the standard of her partnership with Appleton had been inadequate. He also criticised her for counting during routines, suggesting this was not enjoyable for viewers.

Dowden responded with an Instagram video posted moments before tonight's live show. Filmed in her dressing room, the video showed her in a silver dress, blowing a cheeky kiss to the camera. Fans on social media defended the Welsh dancer, accusing Cole of jealousy and bitterness towards her.

How it is being reported

• Strictly Come Dancing 2026: Amy Dowden's brilliant response to Brendan Cole criticismStrictly Come Dancing fans are reeling after a leaked spoiler has revealed a favourite couple are sent packing in the second eliminationThe Mirror · 11 Oct, 10:57
• Strictly’s Amy Dowden praised for ‘iconic’ sassy response to Brendan Cole’s criticismEx-Strictly pro Brendan claimed Amy is 'not up to the challenge'.Metro · 10 Oct, 21:42

In this story: Amy Dowden · Brendan Cole · Chris Appleton · Strictly Come Dancing

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