MICHAEL THEO'S BIG NEW DREAM: LOVE ON THE SPECTRUM STAR WANTS TO DANCE ON TV
Michael Theo, the gentle romantic who stole our hearts on Love on the Spectrum, has revealed his next big ambition, and it involves sequins.
In a candid new interview with Guardian Australia, published at the weekend, the much-loved actor said his dream is to appear on Dancing with the Stars.
He added that he has put the idea "out to the universe" many times, so producers, consider this your sign.
His dream dance partner is no less delightful: former Yellow Wiggle Emma Watkins, now known to little fans as Emma Memma.
Michael Theo And That Famous Top Hat
Of course, fans immediately wondered whether his trademark top hat would make it onto the dance floor.
Michael explained he first bought the hat in 2022 for his TED talk, and it has been part of his signature look ever since.
Given his love of a theatrical moment, we suspect a top hat and tails foxtrot would bring the house down.
Life After Love On The Spectrum
Australia first met Michael on the ABC documentary series Love on the Spectrum, where his old-fashioned manners and hopeful search for love made him a fan favourite.
He did not find a partner during filming, but his career has blossomed since.
He now stars in the ABC comedy Austin, alongside British actors Sally Phillips and Ben Miller.
Michael revealed that he stayed with Sally Phillips while filming in the UK, and he generously rated her hosting skills at 9.5 out of 10.
He also said meeting Billie Piper during the first series was quite an honour.
Love, Heartbreak And Friendship
In the interview, Michael spoke openly about his love life.
He shared that he had been in a relationship for 18 months, which came to an end in April this year.
He also recalled flying from Sydney to Perth for a date about three years ago.
It did not turn into a romance, but it did become a lasting friendship, which is a sweet reminder that not every connection has to end in a love story to be worthwhile.
How Michael Theo Manages Anxiety
Perhaps the most touching part of the interview was his honesty about anxiety.
Michael said he knows what it is like to live with anxiety, and that for him it is something to manage rather than cure.
His own toolkit is refreshingly simple: water, music, television and soft toys.
He owns more than 60 squishy plush toys, which many readers with a comforting teddy of their own will completely understand.
If you or someone you love lives with anxiety, his approach is a gentle reminder that small, familiar comforts can make a real difference, and that talking to a GP is always a good first step if things feel overwhelming.
A New Children's Book Too
As if that was not enough, Michael has also become a published author this year.
His picture book, Edward's Astonishing Animals, tells the story of a quiet boy who discovers he can transform into all sorts of animals.
The heart of the tale is about believing in yourself and celebrating the differences that make each of us special.
It would make a lovely Christmas stocking filler for little animal lovers, and a thoughtful way to start conversations about kindness and acceptance.
Will We See Him On The Dance Floor?
There is no word yet from any network, but if public support counts for anything, Michael Theo would be a ratings winner.
He has charm, enthusiasm and a ready-made costume, after all.
Until then, fans can catch up on Austin, revisit Love on the Spectrum, or curl up with his new book.
We will be keeping our fingers crossed, and our dancing shoes polished, for the day he finally gets that call.
