Sandi Toksvig recalls the need for security on her wedding day due to death threats stemming from her sexuality, highlighting broader societal issues related to hostility against marginalised communities.
Sandi Toksvig Reveals Security Measures During 2014 Wedding Amid Death Threats
In recent revelations, former star of “The Great British Bake Off”, Sandi Toksvig, shared that she required security on her wedding day due to a torrent of death threats. The 66-year-old television presenter formally tied the knot with her partner, Debbie Toksvig, at the Festival Hall in 2014. The couple’s marriage, celebrated following the legalisation of same-sex marriage in the UK, sadly attracted negative attention and threats stemming from their sexuality.
In a discussion with Gyles Brandreth on the Rosebud podcast, Toksvig opened up about the severe backlash she faced since coming out as gay. Reflecting on the situation, she commented, “Oh, some people get very cross about you living your life in something other than what’s perceived as the norm.” During the ceremony, she and her wife had to rely on the presence of close protection police to ensure their safety.
Toksvig further addressed the broader climate of hostility towards marginalised communities, attributing some of the aggression to the pervasive and aggressive discourse prevalent on social media. “There’s a lot of intemperate language used at the moment, particularly on social media,” she noted, indicating how this contributes to the dangerous atmosphere for those who are part of such communities.
The broadcaster, who shares three children with her former partner, Peta Stewart, highlighted that much of the abuse came at a time when openly gay women in showbusiness were exceedingly rare. Despite the discouraging circumstances, Toksvig praised the “fantastic” police hate crime squad for their effective action and support in dealing with the threats directed at her.
In addition to recounting her experiences, Toksvig issued a cautionary message to those who issue threats online, advising them to consider the potential ramifications of their words. Despite years of such targeted hostility, she maintains a positive outlook, stating that she tries to “stay cheerful” and refuses to live in fear.
The couple initially entered into a civil partnership in 2007, which they converted into a marriage seven years later, aligning with the legal developments in the UK regarding same-sex marriage.
Source: Noah Wire Services