In an emotional moment that has left Strictly Come Dancing fans reaching for the tissues, 2017 winner Amber Davies has bravely shared the harrowing details of a traumatic health scare that saw her collapse and lose consciousness — an ordeal she describes as one of the scariest experiences of her life.

The 28-year-old actress and dancer, who shot to fame after lifting the Glitterball Trophy alongside professional partner Giovanni Pernice, appeared on a recent episode of a daytime talk show where she fought back tears while recounting the terrifying incident. Clutching a tissue and visibly shaken, Amber revealed how a sudden and severe medical emergency left her ‘completely unconscious’ and rushed to hospital, forcing her to confront fears she never imagined facing at such a young age.

‘I just remember everything going black,’ she told the host, her voice cracking. ‘One minute I was fine, the next I was on the floor. It was so frightening. I didn’t know what was happening to me.’

The health crisis — which sources close to Amber say occurred in late 2025 — came without warning. Friends say she had been feeling unusually fatigued and dizzy in the days leading up, but dismissed it as exhaustion from her hectic schedule of theatre work, personal appearances and the relentless demands of post-Strictly life.

Then, one evening at home, everything changed.

‘I felt this wave come over me,’ Amber recalled in the tearful interview. ‘My vision blurred, my legs gave way, and that was it. I was out. Completely unconscious. My partner found me on the floor and called an ambulance straight away. I don’t remember any of it.’

Paramedics arrived within minutes. Amber was rushed to hospital where doctors worked urgently to stabilise her. Initial fears centred on a possible seizure, cardiac issue or severe vasovagal episode — a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure that can cause fainting and loss of consciousness.

After a battery of tests — including ECGs, blood work, brain scans and monitoring — medics eventually diagnosed a complex combination of factors: severe dehydration exacerbated by an underlying condition she had not previously been aware of, compounded by stress and what doctors described as a ‘perfect storm’ of triggers.

‘I was terrified,’ Amber admitted. ‘When I woke up in hospital, I didn’t know how long I’d been out or what had happened. The doctors were amazing, but hearing “you were unconscious for quite a while”… it hits you hard. You think, “That could have been so much worse.”’

The ordeal left physical and emotional scars. Amber spent several days in hospital under observation before being discharged with strict instructions: rest, hydration, medication to manage the underlying issue, and a dramatic slowdown in her workload.

‘I had to cancel shows, pull out of commitments,’ she said. ‘It felt like my body was screaming at me to stop. I’d been pushing so hard for years — since Strictly, really — and I ignored the signs.’

Amber’s journey since winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 has been one of non-stop momentum. At just 20 years old, she became the youngest-ever winner alongside Giovanni, captivating the nation with their chemistry and flawless routines. The victory launched her into the West End (9 to 5: The Musical, Heathers), television (The X Factor: Celebrity, The Greatest Dancer), and a string of high-profile tours and panto seasons.

But behind the spotlight, the pressure was immense.

‘Strictly changes your life overnight,’ she reflected. ‘Suddenly you’re everywhere — interviews, photoshoots, rehearsals from dawn till dusk. It’s exhilarating, but it’s also relentless. I never really stopped to breathe.’

The health scare forced that pause — and with it came reflection.

‘I realised how much I’d been running on adrenaline,’ she told the interviewer, wiping away fresh tears. ‘I love what I do, but I love my health and my family more. I’m learning to say no, to rest, to listen to my body. It’s not weakness — it’s survival.’

Fans have rallied around Amber since the interview aired. Social media has been flooded with messages of support: ‘You’re so strong, Amber — take all the time you need.’ ‘Sending love — you’ve been through so much.’ ‘Strictly fam forever — we’ve got you.’

Her former dance partner Giovanni Pernice — with whom she’s remained close friends — posted a heartfelt tribute: ‘Proud of you for speaking out. You’re tougher than any paso doble we ever danced. Rest up, beautiful.’

The emotional on-air breakdown has also reignited conversations about the mental and physical toll of reality TV and performance careers. Strictly Come Dancing itself has faced scrutiny over injuries, burnout and the intense training schedule. Amber’s story adds to a growing chorus of alumni speaking out about the need for better support systems.

‘I’m grateful every day,’ Amber said as the interview wrapped. ‘I’m back on my feet, taking things slower, and focusing on recovery. But I want others to know — if you’re feeling off, don’t ignore it. Your body will tell you when it’s had enough.’

As she rebuilds her strength, Amber has hinted at exciting projects on the horizon: a potential return to the West End, wellness advocacy work, and perhaps even a memoir sharing her full journey.

For now, though, the priority is healing — physically and emotionally.

The image of Amber dabbing her eyes with a tissue, surrounded by studio lights yet utterly vulnerable, has become a powerful symbol: even the brightest stars can face dark moments.

And when they do, the love from fans, friends and the Strictly family shines through brighter than any spotlight.

Amber Davies, you’ve danced through storms before.

This one won’t keep you down either.

Get well soon — the ballroom (and the world) is waiting for your return.