Thomas Skinner made a dramatic exit during a Strictly Come Dancing interview, abruptly stating to journalists, ‘I’m not doing this.’ The Apprentice star left reporters at the BBC’s Elstree Studios in shock as he walked out of the room. This unprecedented move by the 34-year-old former reality TV personality occurred as he snatched a reporter’s phone and refused to continue the interview.
Skinner, known for his controversial social media posts, has faced criticism for his views on patriotism and concerns about safety in London. Despite being vocal online, he objected to being recorded during a press day for Strictly Come Dancing, leaving his fellow contestant, ex-footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, to handle the interviews alone.
Witnesses at the event described Skinner’s sudden departure as unexpected and out of character, with organizers and BBC executives reportedly discussing his future on the show. The incident unfolded when a female journalist asked Skinner about his motivation for joining Strictly, prompting him to react by grabbing her phone and halting the interview abruptly.
Earlier that day, Skinner had shared a cryptic message with his followers, emphasizing his authenticity and refusal to conform to please others. This incident occurred shortly after BBC director-general Tim Davie defended the decision to include Skinner in the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing, stating that controversial or unacceptable views would not be tolerated on the show.
Skinner is set to join other celebrities such as Love Island winner Dani Dyer-Bowen, former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, and CBBC actress Ellie Goldstein, who will make history as the first contestant with Down’s syndrome to compete in the full series of Strictly Come Dancing when the show premieres later this year.
