For Amber Davies, this year’s Strictly Come Dancing was supposed to be the moment everything came full circle — the chance to prove that her background as a trained dancer could take her from reality TV fame to genuine performing credibility.
But just a few weeks in, that dream is starting to look a little shaky.
From Love Island Winner to Ballroom Hopeful
When Amber shot to fame after winning Love Island in 2017, she was determined to make her mark beyond reality television.
A lifelong dancer, she told her management team she had one clear goal — to get on Strictly, no matter how long it took.
But despite her best efforts, the door stayed firmly closed — at least twice — until this year.
Her big break finally came when Dani Dyer had to pull out mid-series after fracturing her ankle, leaving producers scrambling to find a celebrity with enough dance experience to keep the show’s rhythm intact.
A Sudden Chance Comes With Pressure
At first, everything seemed to be falling into place. Amber, 29, had the experience and energy the show needed.
But the fairytale quickly hit a few bumps.
Rumors began swirling about her management shake-ups, with whispers of “unrealistic demands” following her departure from several representatives.
Then came the real sting — Amber ended up in the bottom two on Sunday’s results show, despite a strong leaderboard score, finding herself dancing for survival against ex-footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
It was a moment of real disappointment — especially for someone who had been tipped to go far.
The Strictly Curse Whispers Begin
To make things worse, a simple affectionate gesture from her professional dance partner Nikita Kuzmin, who was seen kissing Amber gently on the head, set off wild (and false) rumors about a possible romance.
Amber’s new PR team jumped into action, trying to control the story and shift focus back to her dancing.
“She’s gutted but motivated,” a spokesperson said. “Amber’s putting her best foot forward and learning from the experience.”
Behind the smiles, though, friends say Amber has been privately struggling with how quickly things have turned against her.
Quiet Messages and Old Friends
According to insiders, the ambitious Welsh performer has been reaching out to old showbiz friends through private WhatsApp messages — people she once distanced herself from — asking them not to speak against her.
“Her messages have been described as passive-aggressive,” a source revealed.
“She wants people to back her now, but for a long time, she didn’t want anything to do with them. It’s all very awkward.”
A Theatre Star With Big Ambitions
Amber’s passion for performing began in Rhyl, North Wales, where she attended a local stage school before winning a scholarship to London’s prestigious Urdang Academy at just 16.
After Love Island, she made a smooth transition to the stage, starring as Judy in 9 to 5: The Musical, inspired by Dolly Parton’s hits.
Since then, she’s taken on roles in Back to the Future, The Great Gatsby, Bring It On, and Pretty Woman, building a solid theatre résumé.
Next year, she’s even set to take the lead in a 2026 touring production of Legally Blonde — a sign that her stage career continues to thrive.
Why Viewers Aren’t Buying It
But despite her talent, Amber’s time on Strictly has sparked debate.
Many fans argue that her professional dance training gives her an unfair edge, while others simply haven’t warmed to her on-screen persona.
“It’s almost unheard of,” said one source close to the production.
“To score that high with the judges but still land in the bottom two means the audience isn’t connecting with her. That’s a huge red flag.”
A Perfectionist Under Pressure
Those who’ve worked with Amber describe her as intensely driven, sometimes to a fault.
She’s known for being outspoken when things don’t go her way — a trait that’s caused tension in the past.
“She’s a classic leading lady,” one insider said. “Talented, but demanding.
If something falls through — like a role or an opportunity — she makes her frustration clear. Saturday night must have been tough for her.”
From Showbiz Strops to Second Chances
Amber’s passion for success has occasionally spilled over into diva-like moments — whether it’s requesting cars after events or pushing for prime red carpet access. But those close to her insist it all comes from ambition, not arrogance.
“She’s worked hard for everything she’s got,” said another source. “Sometimes that drive gets misunderstood. But she genuinely wants to succeed.”
What Happens Next for Amber Davies
With Remembrance weekend approaching and another Strictly elimination looming, Amber’s next few performances could make or break her time on the show.
For now, she’s trying to stay positive, focusing on her routines with Nikita and blocking out the noise — both on social media and behind the scenes.
Still, as one friend put it, “Amber doesn’t take failure lightly.
She’ll fight for her place — and she won’t go quietly.”