S Poddar
The singer, who has been partnered with professional Neil Jones since the start of the show, was released from the competition in a shocking dance-off against fellow contestant Paul Merson. The singer sang about being ‘forced out’ after making a scathing comment about fellow contestant Chris McCausland on the social networking site.
As Sunday night’s show came to a close, it marked the end of the road for Toyah but it was actually her remark about comedian Chris McCausland that was aimed squarely at viewing eyes. Appearing on It Takes Two with Neil, Toyah joking said something many interpreted as a slight against Chris, which generated social media ripples.
Asked by host Fleur East if she had any words for the contestants left in the running, Toyah swiftly retorted: “If you don’t want to do a dance-off, get rid of Chris!” “You are all going to have to face a dance-off,” she was quick to add. Neil, not missing the opportunity of joining in on the banter, light-heartedly chimes in: “I think she’s chosen her winner already.”
While laughter can be heard during the filming of that episode, many viewers saw it as an attack from Chris by Toyah. Well, before they knew it, the moment already went viral in social media as fans make a mixed review of what she said.
After all this backlash, Toyah finally spoke up through an Instagram post and revealed what really happened. Posting a picture of Chris, she explained: “Just to clarify and to clear up any confusion that’s flying around. My good friend @chrismccausland is my favorite to win this year, I think he is inspiring and brilliant, he has worked so hard and I wish him nothing but love! Toyah x”. Her personal message silenced all the misunderstandings saying how much she admires and loves Chris, who became a fan favorite this season.
In the exit interview on It Takes Two, Neil was not hesitant in praising Toyah, talking fondly about the time they spent with each other sharing the reality show. “Toyah has been brilliant. We have laughed so much, we have had so much fun, and we’ve had some really great conversations as well,” he said. The smile on Neil’s face continued, “You’re not getting rid of me. You’ve got me for life now.”
The camaraderie between the two extended beyond the dance floor and could be seen through their time on Strictly. Although they exited the competition relatively early, joy and humor surrounded Toyah and Neil’s partnership, to which Neil referred when describing their time as brilliant.
Although Strictly is over for Toyah, Strictly Come Dancing is still keeping the viewer guessing: The witty comedy turn Chris McCausland remains in with Toyah, wishing he gets the glitterball. Such praise coming from the lips of the likes of Toyah only adds to the growing penchant people show in support of the ratings front runner for this season in the form of comedian Chris McCausland.
Certainly not dull has been Toyah’s experience on Strictly, nor only within the context of her dances but more so in regard to her interactions with her fellow contenders. Former and present icon, with a very colorful career in music and a more occasionally visible stint in acting, Toyah introduced herself to a new age of fans through the program. Bright personality shines as bright as her bounciness back, battling the idea that she might be one of the contestants eliminated.
Though it was shorter than many might have wished for, Toyah said she was happy with the stint in Strictly. “I am absolutely delighted with my experience of Strictly. Artisteuros were friendly, contestants had a great camaraderie with all of them — especially with Chris — and the producers worked really hard as well. Warm relationship with Neil, going about with friendships with other contestants like Chris, reflects the spirit of the competition: light-hearted fun blending with intense hard work and dedication.”.
Elimination on Strictly Come Dancing is often dramatic and up for debate, but with Toyah, there seems to be no exception. But her lighthearted remarks about Chris McCausland and her clarification later told the real story-because she cares about her fellow contestants and feels a deep respect for the work that everyone has put in.
As the show goes on, all will be attention focused on Chris and the rest of the remaining contestants as they continue to battle for the Strictly crown. Meanwhile, Toyah’s experience has been a treasured chapter in a long and varied career. Leave the ballroom with her head held very high, she brought laughter, energy, and that tiny bit of rock-and-roll spirit to the dance floor.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 6.20 pm on BBC One, with some fans anticipating the next round of performances — and perhaps some more surprises along the way.
