Amber Davies: From Love Island Victory to West End Success and Strictly Come Dancing 2025
Introduction: A Reality TV Star’s Remarkable Transformation
Amber Davies won the third series of Love Island in 2017 alongside Kem Cetinay, capturing the nation’s hearts and launching what would become an impressive entertainment career. The Welsh performer’s journey from reality television to respected stage actress demonstrates how talent and determination can transcend the reality TV stereotype. Her story remains relevant today as Davies has replaced fellow Love Island winner Dani Dyer-Bowen on Strictly 2025, after a fall at rehearsals left her with a fractured ankle, proving that Amber continues to make headlines in British entertainment.
The Love Island Beginning and Life After Victory
Amber entered the villa on Day 1 and was crowned the winner alongside Kem Cetinay on Day 52 of Love Island’s third series. However, Davies and Cetinay split up in December 2017, just four months after winning Love Island, with the couple citing busy schedules as the reason for their breakup. Rather than capitalising solely on reality TV fame, Amber returned to her theatrical roots. Aged 16, Davies gained a scholarship to train in musical theatre at the Urdang Academy in London, demonstrating that her entertainment credentials existed long before Love Island.
Building a Successful West End Career
Following her Love Island victory, Davies was cast in Bring It On: The Musical in 2021, then starred in Back to the Future: The Musical in 2022, followed by her role in Pretty Woman throughout 2023. Her theatrical success has been both critically acclaimed and financially rewarding. Davies is said to have a net worth of around £3.2 million, according to the Daily Mail, accumulated through her acting career and brand collaborations. Beyond performing, she began hosting Call to Stage, a podcast about theatre in 2024, further establishing herself within the theatrical community.
2024-2025: Dancing on Ice and Strictly Come Dancing
In 2024, Davies appeared as a contestant on the sixteenth series of Dancing on Ice. She was paired with Simon Proulx-Sénécal and was eighth to be eliminated. Her reality TV journey came full circle in 2025 when she partnered up with Nikita Kuzmin on Strictly Come Dancing to take to the floor as they attempt to win the famous glitterball trophy. The seasoned performer is well-equipped for the challenge, having trained in dance and musical theatre throughout her youth.
Conclusion: A Testament to Reinvention
Amber Davies’ journey from Love Island winner to respected West End performer and television personality showcases the possibilities for reality TV stars willing to work hard and pursue their genuine passions. Her continued presence in British entertainment through Strictly Come Dancing 2025 demonstrates lasting appeal beyond her initial reality TV fame. For aspiring performers and Love Island fans alike, Amber’s story proves that reality television can be a launching pad rather than a limitation, particularly when combined with genuine talent, professional training, and unwavering determination to succeed in one’s chosen field.