Toyah Willcox, best known for her iconic songs like “I Want to Be Free” and “It’s A Mystery”, is set to light up the dancefloor as a contestant on this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. The 66-year-old punk-rock singer brings a wealth of experience from over 40 years in the music industry, with eight top 40 singles, twenty-five albums, and two books to her name.
While Strictly often features reality TV stars and presenters, Willcox’s addition as a punk-rock legend adds a unique twist to the roster of celebrities competing for the coveted glitterball trophy. From fronting the band Toyah in the late Seventies to a successful solo career in the mid-Eighties, Willcox has also showcased her talents in acting, singing, and dancing in numerous stage shows and feature films.
Notably, she has starred in the 1979 Queen Elizabeth I film “Jubilee” and the mod film “Quadrophenia” alongside notable names like Sting and Ray Winstone. Despite her extensive musical and acting accomplishments, Willcox remains humble and excited about her Strictly journey, expressing her eagerness to learn new dance routines and embrace the sparkle of the show.
Inspired by her friend Angela Rippon’s stellar performance on a previous season of Strictly, Willcox revealed her decision to seize the opportunity to participate in the iconic dance competition. While acknowledging the intense dedication required, she is enthusiastic about taking on the challenge and immersing herself in the world of Strictly Come Dancing.
The 20th anniversary series of Strictly is gearing up to be a memorable one, with a star-studded lineup that includes EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick, Olympian Tom Dean, and JLS singer JB Gill. This year’s edition introduces new welfare measures in light of recent allegations that have affected the show, aiming to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
As Willcox and her fellow contestants prepare to showcase their Rumba, Cha Cha, and Waltz skills on the dancefloor, the anticipation for the new season continues to build. With the legacy of Strictly Come Dancing celebrating two decades of dance and entertainment, viewers can expect a thrilling and unforgettable series ahead.