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Love Island winner and musical theatre performer Amber Davies steps into the Strictly spotlight as a last-minute replacement, overcoming criticism and social media negativity to impress judges in her debut performance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Amber Davies, the 2017 winner of Love Island, has stepped into the spotlight once again, this time as a last-minute replacement on Strictly Come Dancing following Dani Dyer’s unfortunate ankle injury. At 29, Davies brings to the show a background rooted in musical theatre, having starred in notable productions such as Pretty Woman and 9 to 5: The Musical. Her transition from reality TV star to West End performer marks a significant shift, underscoring her ambition to establish a serious career in the performing arts.<\/p>\n
Davies has openly acknowledged the challenges of stepping in just days before the live show, highlighting the steep learning curve that ballroom dancing presents compared to her previous experience as a singer and actress. She likened the difference to the contrast between pop singing and opera, reflecting on how demanding this new discipline is for her. To focus on her performance, she has deliberately avoided engaging with negative comments on social media, stating, \u201cI refuse to read any comments online. I am not going there. In the past, I have gone looking for it, and it just makes me feel like crap.\u201d This approach reflects her determination to stay positive and concentrate on rehearsals as she navigates this high-pressure environment.<\/p>\n
Her boyfriend, theatre actor Ben Joyce, has been a significant source of support, complimenting her for performing the best routine she has done so far. Partnered with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin, Davies is committed to mastering the art of ballroom dancing despite her initial novice status in this specific style. On Strictly\u2019s live debut, she impressed judges with a waltz that earned her 27 points, a commendable start given her recent introduction to the show.<\/p>\n
However, Davies’ inclusion on Strictly Come Dancing has sparked some controversy. Several critics and fans have raised concerns about fairness, pointing to her extensive dance background\u2014which includes a diploma in professional musical theatre and dance\u2014as giving her an advantage over other contestants who might be complete beginners. Some argue this experience contradicts the show’s traditional premise of teaching novices to dance. On the other hand, supporters and some contestants have defended her, recognising the pressure she faces stepping in at short notice and applauding her rapid adaptation and performance quality.<\/p>\n
Davies herself has anticipated this criticism. During a podcast interview, she described herself as a beginner in ballroom and Latin dance, despite her broader dance training, and expressed a heartfelt commitment to prove herself on the show. She emphasised that she respects the opportunity to participate in Strictly and is focused on giving her best performance.<\/p>\n
Despite the mixed reception, Davies remains mindful of her roots and supportive of Dani Dyer, staying in communication with her friend and former contestant, who is currently recovering from her injury. \u201cIf the shoe was on the other foot\u2026 I can only imagine how devastated I would feel,\u201d Davies reflected, highlighting their close connection and mutual respect.<\/p>\n
In sum, Amber Davies is drawing on her resilience and professional experience as she attempts to balance public scrutiny with her aspirations on Strictly Come Dancing. Through careful management of social media negativity, encouragement from loved ones, and a clear-eyed focus on her new role, she aims to carve out a respected place in the competitive world of dance and theatre.<\/p>\n