Strictly Come Dancing contestant La Voix has given a fascinating insight into the warm and humorous relationship she shares with host Tess Daly backstage, just as the show faces a major presenting shake-up.
The Jovial Backstage Dynamic
In a recent interview, La Voix, the show's pioneering first drag queen, disclosed the fun interactions she enjoys with the long-serving presenter. She revealed that she had even jokingly put herself forward as a potential stylist for Tess.
La Voix, who is currently partnered with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, told The Sun: "If I don't get the presenting job I would like to be Tess' stylist moving forward. I'm empowering her with my observational awareness."
She went on to describe how Tess actively encourages their on-air banter. "Tess has responded more beautifully than I expected," La Voix said. "Every week she will come up to me backstage and say, 'Come on La Voix, what have you got to say on this outfit then.' But she'll stop me and say, 'Let's save it for on air' — she eggs me on. I'm so glad that she is in on the joke. I love her humour."
A Setback for the Blackpool Special
This revelation about their backstage camaraderie comes with a significant disappointment for La Voix and her dance partner. The performer has been forced to withdraw from the highly anticipated Blackpool special this weekend due to an injury.
A spokesperson for Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the news in a statement, saying: "Due to injury, La Voix has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, will not dance in this weekend's Blackpool specials."
In line with the programme's rules, La Voix and Aljaž will receive a bye through to the following week, with the hope that she will have recovered sufficiently to perform again.
Heartbreak and Hope for Recovery
Expressing her sadness, La Voix, whose off-stage name is Christopher Dennis, released a separate statement. "It is with immense sadness that I have to withdraw from this weekend's Strictly Come Dancing shows in Blackpool," she said.
"Due to an injury, I've been advised that I'm unable to perform, and my heart truly breaks knowing I won't be dancing in such an iconic venue." She added that she and Aljaž had worked incredibly hard and were excited to share their routine.
Her focus is now squarely on recovery. "I am devastated not to be joining the rest of the cast on that famous dancefloor, but my focus now is on recovery. I'll be cheering on all the amazing couples this weekend."
The news arrives against the backdrop of Tess Daly and her co-host Claudia Winkleman's impending departure from the show, with La Voix openly admitting she would be interested in taking over one of the coveted presenting roles.
