Strictly’s Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

As a seasoned entertainer with a career spanning over four decades, I must say that my Strictly Come Dancing journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The level of care and support provided by the team is truly commendable. I’ve danced with stars, met fantastic professionals, and even had a few bra fittings – an experience I never thought would be part of my resume!


For the very first time, the renowned singer Toyah Willcox has shared details about an unexpected and horrific encounter where she was viciously stabbed with a knife.

Over the weekend, the 66-year-old singer, making his debut on the dance floor, fell victim to an attack during an evening stroll with a companion.

In a chilling retelling of the incident, Toyah described how she and her friend Dawn found themselves victims of an assault during their teenage years. They managed to escape by making a threat that they would summon some formidable evil upon their attacker.

In her memoir, titled “Living Out Loud”, Toyah articulated that she needed to conceal any semblance of ‘fear’ and patiently seek the ‘opportune time for an exit’.

In a café known for its rough Angel gang, Dawn and I found ourselves. While I was still naive, Dawn had seen more of the world. She didn’t seem phased by their weapons – knuckle-dusters and blades – and appeared to appreciate their male company.

Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

Following our time at the café, we moved on to a pub, later strolling down the main street for some shopping in storefronts. They expressed a desire to visit the nearby park. As I walked with Dawn, I suggested hopping on a bus together and leaving the area. However, Dawn replied, “Don’t be so grumpy, it will be enjoyable.

Meanwhile, Dawn ventured into some shrubbery accompanied by her companion. I managed to keep my own at bay using tedious chatter until Dawn reappeared.

It appeared as though it was time for me to be taken away forcefully. Rather than revealing my fear, I quickly listed a series of unpleasant conditions – sickness, food poisoning, insanity, seizures, menstrual cramps, homosexuality – within just a few minutes, in an attempt to deter them.

In a desperate attempt, I begged Dawn for help in getting me out of this situation. She replied, “Sure, go ahead, it’s entertaining.” However, things took a turn for the worse when my companion brandished a knife against me. Dawn paled, made some quick excuses, and hurriedly departed.

As for what happened next, Toyah explained: ‘Recognizing that fear would only hinder me, I made up my mind to stick with the plan until I found the opportune time to make my getaway.’

So, ramping up my confidence, I shifted strategy and guided him into the men’s restrooms of the park. He was inebriated. In that moment, my determination and timing proved crucial.

‘Putting his blade down to unzip his trousers he pushed me to the floor and lay on top of me.

Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

His drunkenness appeared to worsen, and for a brief moment, he seemed disoriented and lost control over his hand movements, suggesting the possibility that he might have been under the influence of something else too, such as marijuana.

‘I stared him in the eyes and asked him, “Would you like to meet the Devil?” He was dumbstruck.

As I poured every ounce of my raw emotions – dread and loathing – into my gaze, keeping not a single muscle in my face from its unwavering intensity, he seemed to falter, turning away in what appeared to be revulsion.

Impulsively rising, I voiced my displeasure over his actions and departed from the premises.

After stepping outside, he transformed into an entirely new person, displaying uncertainty towards me as we escorted each other to the bus stop.

As a lifestyle and wellness connoisseur, I am eager to share with you the measures the BBC has implemented to ensure that the Strictly Come Dancing rehearsal environment feels secure and welcoming after the unfortunate incidents of bullying in the previous season. These thoughtful adjustments aim to create an atmosphere where everyone can dance joyfully without fear or discomfort.

This eighties pop icon, being the eldest contender for this season’s competition, expressed that the training thus far is one of the most joyful episodes in her life. She added that it has been quite some time since she has experienced such a sense of care and wellbeing.

During her ballroom preparations this weekend, Toyah shared that they now have a ‘psychologist present throughout the day’ while on set, and the professional dancers are described as being ‘extremely supportive and delightful.’

Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend
Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

On her official Toyah Willcox website blog for September, she shared: “For the past six weeks, I’ve been busy with video tape recordings, impressive press interactions, numerous photo sessions, fitting for bras, and encounters with my fellow celebrities who are simply marvelous. To top it off, I’ve danced with all of the professional dancers, who are not only supportive but also wonderful individuals.

“I feel very secure with this group. We’ve got a psychologist around throughout the day, a fantastic celebrity producer, an outstanding public relations team… It’s been a while since I’ve felt this well taken care of. In the world of Strictly, they make sure celebrities know they’re here to support us in every possible way.

She went on to say: “For nearly a month now, we’ve been collaborating. Professional dancers often advise us to consume plenty of food. I sense my weight increasing, but I don’t require a large amount of sustenance; my energy seems to be genetically inherent.

We’re fortunate to be under the care of some truly exceptional individuals. These include costume designers, hairstylists, makeup artists, and talent assistants, as well as psychologists who frequently touch base with us every hour.

Recently, the star program of the BBC has found itself in a state of chaos following accusations of bullying and mistreatment towards two of its well-known dancers, Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice, who have been professional members of the team.

In my role as a lifestyle advisor, I find it regrettable to share that at age 30, I, too, have made a mistake during training sessions, where emotions ran high and led me to physically lash out at my partner. On the other hand, I’ve also observed a situation in which Amanda Abbington, aged 50, has voiced concerns about experiencing bullying behavior from her partner in rehearsals – an issue that should never be tolerated. It is crucial for us all to remember the importance of maintaining respect and understanding within our relationships, whether personal or professional.

Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend
Strictly's Toyah Willcox reveals she was brutally attacked at knifepoint while out walking with a friend

BBC bosses have announced new duty of care protocols for the show’s 20th edition.

As an over-the-moon fan, I’d excitedly rephrase that for you: From now on, I’ll have a behind-the-scenes buddy during rehearsals in the training rooms, and my favorite celebrities and pro dancers will receive even more backing! That sounds like a dream come true!

Two individuals, one specializing in celebrity care and another in dance professional care, have been assigned these responsibilities.

Further training will also be delivered for the production team and crew.

On Saturday, September 14th at 7:20 PM, the kickoff event for Strictly Come Dancing 2024 will be broadcasted on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Read More

2024-09-19 00:11

Previous post ‘Agatha All Along’ and ‘The Penguin’ prove that the superior universe is on television