Amber Davies Reflects on Her Strictly Come Dancing Journey
In a candid interview, Amber Davies, the Welsh sensation who rose to fame on Love Island and later made headlines on Strictly Come Dancing, opens up about the challenges she faced, including relentless online trolling and the pressures of being in the public eye. Davies, who reached the final of the popular BBC dance competition, shares insights into her experience and her journey from performing in her living room to hitting the big stage.
From Love Island to the Strictly Spotlight
Davies first captured the nation’s heart on Love Island, a reality TV show that launched her career. Her next move was to Strictly Come Dancing, where she partnered with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin. Their journey was not without hurdles, as Davies faced significant criticism from viewers at home.
The Weight of Public Scrutiny
During the semi-final of Strictly Come Dancing, Kuzmin made a tearful plea to the audience, urging them to be kind to Davies. The criticism she received was intense, with many questioning her place in the competition due to her previous dance training. Davies, however, maintains a positive outlook, stating, “I genuinely think it’s getting worse” when it comes to online hate.
She notes that the negativity often stems from older audiences, adding, “If you’re confident, you’re seen as stuck up. Too sweet and you’re fake, so you can’t do anything right.” This double standard is something Davies has had to navigate throughout her career.
A Supportive Environment on Set
Despite the external pressure, Davies emphasizes that her experience on the Strictly set was supportive. “Being in the Strictly bubble, it’s so magical. I’ll never experience anything like that again,” she says. The show’s supportive environment contrasts sharply with the harshness of online interactions.
Breaking Barriers and Embracing Personal Growth
Davies’ journey is a testament to resilience and personal growth. She started performing in her living room, charging just £1.50 a ticket, and has since become a household name. Her current role in Legally Blonde the Musical is a perfect fit, as she embodies the spirit of ambition and self-belief.
The Power of Positivity
Through her podcast, Call to Stage, Davies shares motivational messages such as “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Her sincerity and positive attitude have helped her navigate the challenges of fame. “I am ambitious,” she says, “and [people think] confidence comes across as being stuck-up.”
Challenging Stereotypes
Davies also addresses the stereotypes she has faced as a woman in the public eye. An article labeling her as a “diva” particularly bothered her. “At the end of the day, not everyone’s going to like everyone,” she reflects, but the impact of such labels is undeniable.
The Future Looks Bright
As Davies continues to tour with Legally Blonde the Musical, her future in entertainment seems promising. Her journey from Love Island to Strictly Come Dancing and now to the stage is a narrative of perseverance and success. Fans of the Welsh star can expect to see more of her in the years to come, as she continues to break barriers and inspire others.
Amber Davies’ story is not just about a celebrity’s rise to fame; it’s about the power of staying true to oneself despite the odds. Her experiences on Strictly Come Dancing and beyond serve as a reminder that resilience and positivity can overcome even the harshest criticism.
