Local actor Finlay McKillop, a former student of the High School of Dundee, saw his run on ITV’s new gameshow, 99 To Beat, come to a dramatic end due to a controversial rule infraction. The show, hosted by celebrity brothers Ryan and Adam Thomas, pits 100 contestants against each other in a series of seemingly simple challenges, reminiscent of the popular Netflix series Squid Game, with a £25,000 prize awaiting the ultimate victor.
Viewers in Perth and Kinross may recognize McKillop from his current lead role as Will in the stage musical *Restless Natives* at Perth Theatre. His gameshow elimination coincided with the musical’s opening weekend, offering a unique local connection to the Saturday night entertainment. Tin Can Challenge Leads to Downfall
The episode began with 26 contestants vying for a spot in the next round. The challenge that sealed McKillop’s fate involved maneuvering a tin can across a finish line using only a ball suspended within a sock attached to their waist. This unusual test demanded a delicate balance of core strength, precision, and a healthy dose of patience. The last contestant to complete the course would be eliminated.
McKillop, known for his online presence with over 4.5 million likes on TikTok, initially expressed confidence in his strategy. He even had a contingency plan, highlighting the competitive spirit he’d honed in the acting world. However, as the challenge progressed, it became clear that his plan wasn’t working. With only one other competitor, 63-year-old Kent radio presenter Robin Nixon, still on the course, McKillop found himself lagging significantly behind.
Facing imminent elimination, McKillop admitted to a change in tactics. In a surprising move, he abruptly launched the ball forward, sending it over the finish line and seemingly securing his place in the next round. However, his victory was short-lived. A Rule Break and a Bitter Farewell
A resounding buzzer halted the celebrations. The show’s producers announced a rule violation, revealing that McKillop had used his hand to propel the ball, a clear breach of the challenge’s regulations. He was instructed to return to the starting point, while Nixon was allowed to resume from his previous position, just shy of the finish line. This effectively guaranteed McKillop’s elimination, which was confirmed shortly after Nixon completed the course.
The hosts described the situation as a ‘controversial night’ for the Dundee actor, who accepted the ruling with a mix of disappointment and humor. He acknowledged his error and expressed his renewed focus on his theatrical pursuits, wishing for success in the West End. From Gameshow to Stage Spotlight
Despite his gameshow setback, McKillop remains positive. He’s currently captivating audiences in Perth with his performance in *Restless Natives: The Musical*, a production drawing locals and visitors alike to experience a unique blend of Scottish storytelling and musical talent. The show offers a captivating theatre experience in the heart of Perth, providing a perfect cultural outing for residents of Perth and Kinross.
This blend of national television exposure and local theatrical involvement offers a fascinating glimpse into the multifaceted talents of a rising star with roots in the community. For those looking for a compelling theatre experience close to home, *Restless Natives* provides an excellent opportunity to support a local actor making waves both on screen and on stage.
Viewers in Perth and Kinross may recognize McKillop from his current lead role as Will in the stage musical *Restless Natives* at Perth Theatre. His gameshow elimination coincided with the musical’s opening weekend, offering a unique local connection to the Saturday night entertainment. Tin Can Challenge Leads to Downfall
The episode began with 26 contestants vying for a spot in the next round. The challenge that sealed McKillop’s fate involved maneuvering a tin can across a finish line using only a ball suspended within a sock attached to their waist. This unusual test demanded a delicate balance of core strength, precision, and a healthy dose of patience. The last contestant to complete the course would be eliminated.
McKillop, known for his online presence with over 4.5 million likes on TikTok, initially expressed confidence in his strategy. He even had a contingency plan, highlighting the competitive spirit he’d honed in the acting world. However, as the challenge progressed, it became clear that his plan wasn’t working. With only one other competitor, 63-year-old Kent radio presenter Robin Nixon, still on the course, McKillop found himself lagging significantly behind.
Facing imminent elimination, McKillop admitted to a change in tactics. In a surprising move, he abruptly launched the ball forward, sending it over the finish line and seemingly securing his place in the next round. However, his victory was short-lived. A Rule Break and a Bitter Farewell
A resounding buzzer halted the celebrations. The show’s producers announced a rule violation, revealing that McKillop had used his hand to propel the ball, a clear breach of the challenge’s regulations. He was instructed to return to the starting point, while Nixon was allowed to resume from his previous position, just shy of the finish line. This effectively guaranteed McKillop’s elimination, which was confirmed shortly after Nixon completed the course.
The hosts described the situation as a ‘controversial night’ for the Dundee actor, who accepted the ruling with a mix of disappointment and humor. He acknowledged his error and expressed his renewed focus on his theatrical pursuits, wishing for success in the West End. From Gameshow to Stage Spotlight
Despite his gameshow setback, McKillop remains positive. He’s currently captivating audiences in Perth with his performance in *Restless Natives: The Musical*, a production drawing locals and visitors alike to experience a unique blend of Scottish storytelling and musical talent. The show offers a captivating theatre experience in the heart of Perth, providing a perfect cultural outing for residents of Perth and Kinross.
This blend of national television exposure and local theatrical involvement offers a fascinating glimpse into the multifaceted talents of a rising star with roots in the community. For those looking for a compelling theatre experience close to home, *Restless Natives* provides an excellent opportunity to support a local actor making waves both on screen and on stage.