Lauren Oakley

Dancing Diva! Lauren Oakley Shimmies into Action on Strictly!

Lauren Oakley takes the spotlight replacing Amy Dowden on Strictly Come Dancing—find out about her dance journey and what’s next!

In a stunning turn of events on BBC's beloved show Strictly Come Dancing, professional dancer Lauren Oakley has gracefully stepped in for Amy Dowden, who unfortunately collapsed backstage during the recent Halloween special. As the lights dimmed and the crowd cheered, Austin's own dance diva swiftly paired up with JLS singer JB Gill to ensure the show went on and the audience remained entertained. While all eyes were on the spectacular performances, behind the scenes, Oakley was putting her best foot forward in a whirlwind of rehearsals, making sure she was dance-ready amidst the sudden changes.

The news of JLS star JB Gill's new partnership spread like wildfire, fuelling fans’ excitement and curiosity. The beloved Oakley, who joined the Strictly roster in 2022, is no stranger to the competitive world of dance. Previously partnered with journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy, she’s poised to show off her talent and flair on this dazzling platform. Her strong presence has often led people to wonder why she has been considered a “best-kept secret” among fans, but now she’s ready to shine brighter than ever.

Following her quick rise to the forefront, Lauren shared a heartfelt promise to Gill that she would give her all in this electrifying competition. Speaking about her soul-touching commitment, Oakley expressed her urge to make Amy proud and wished her a swift recovery. Fans are rallying behind her every step of the way, eagerly waiting to see Oakley dazzle the dance floor with Gill and keep the spirit of Strictly alive, all while embodying the camaraderie and resilience that characterises the show.

As excitement builds with each new rehearsal, it’s worth noting that the world of Strictly isn’t just about dance—it’s also a stage for incredible stories, challenges, and partnerships! Fans have been taken on En-Night-tional joyrides through countless seasons of glitter and tears. Lauren’s journey signifies that while the dance floor may shift underfoot, the passion and dedication remain steadfast. And just a fun fact for the dance nerds out there: JLS, former X Factor winners, have made their mark not just in music, but now in the world of dance, showcasing that talent knows no boundaries! Plus, Oakley’s journey highlights how quickly one can move from being a supporting player to the star of the show – proving that every dancer has their moment to shine!