The latest Strictly Come Dancing press event at Elstree Studios turned chaotic on Tuesday when reality star Thomas Skinner abruptly stormed out.
The 34-year-old Apprentice alum reportedly participated in only two interviews before leaving, leaving BBC organizers scrambling and sparking emergency talks about whether he should remain on the show.
The incident came as Skinner, seated next to former Chelsea star Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, confronted reporters over being filmed on their phones—a standard part of the media launch.
Tense Moments with the Press
According to insiders, Skinner became frustrated when a female journalist asked why he was joining Strictly while recording him on her phone.
He loudly demanded, “What’s that?” and grabbed the device off the table.
After a brief struggle to retrieve her phone, the journalist was able to do so, but Skinner had already walked out.
BBC staff quickly escorted Hasselbaink away while searching for Skinner.
A source told the Daily Mail, “This is exactly what Strictly did not need.
With recent controversies, bosses wanted a smooth series launch, but Thomas is already causing havoc.
If this is a sign of things to come, the show has a big problem.”
Fans and Critics Respond
Fans have expressed outrage online, some vowing to boycott the show after Skinner faced criticism for meeting Donald Trump’s vice president and calling him a “proper gent.”
Skinner defended himself, insisting that left-wing criticism of him is unfair.
Last month, he told the Daily Mail, “I’m not right-wing. People just started saying it because I met JD Vance and posted a picture.”
He added, “Some people will hate you without ever really knowing you—and that’s okay. I wish them well.
We’re all different, and not everyone will see life the same way.”
From Apprentice Star to Strictly Contestant
Skinner has spent weeks preparing for the show, which he says is his mother’s favorite program.
He insists he’s participating for “pint-drinking, kebab-eating dads out there with beer bellies.”
Since rising to fame on The Apprentice in 2019, Skinner’s TV experience has been limited, including an appearance on Celebrity MasterChef in 2020.
Known for his “Bosh” catchphrase, he describes himself as a “modern-day Del Boy” and built a loyal following through motivational speeches at his favorite café.
Addressing a Controversial Past
Before his rise to fame, Skinner had legal troubles involving dishonestly handling thousands of Body Shop products and diazepam tablets.
He has openly acknowledged these past mistakes, framing them as part of his journey to inspire others.
Speaking on social media, he reminded critics that he had “turned his life around” and now works to spread positivity, including engaging in knife crime prevention initiatives.
Inside the Strictly Lineup 2025
This year’s lineup features a diverse mix of celebrities ready to hit the dance floor:
-
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, 36, Olympic sprinter and Gladiator, promises to bring his speed and energy to the ballroom.
-
Alex Kingston, 62, Doctor Who actress, teased, “My hips don’t lie.”
-
Balvinder Sopal, 46, EastEnders actress, expressed excitement at the chance to dance across the ballroom.
-
La Voix, 45, drag performer, called Strictly a “national institution” and looked forward to performing.
-
Vicky Pattison, 37, reality TV star, admitted she was “terrified” but thrilled to participate.
-
Karen Carney, 38, football pundit, described joining the show as a dream come true.
-
Dani Dyer, 29, reality star and 2018 Love Island winner, called the experience “the second most amazing thing I’ve done this year.”
-
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, 53, former Chelsea striker, joked about swapping football for ballroom dancing.
-
Ellie Goldstein, 23, model and disability ambassador, called her appearance “a dream.”
-
Chris Robshaw, 39, rugby player, hopes to elevate his “dad-dancing” skills.
-
Stefan Dennis, 66, actor, looks forward to “sparkle and reaching for the sky.”
-
Ross King, 63, showbiz correspondent, aims to learn from the best while avoiding stepping on toes.
-
Lewis Cope, 30, actor, is excited to swap the Dales for the dance floor.
A Show Already Full of Drama
Skinner’s walkout adds an unexpected twist to a series that was already facing public scrutiny.
With a mix of seasoned entertainers, sports stars, and reality TV personalities, Strictly 2025 promises excitement both on and off the dance floor.