Fans of the television show “Strictly Come Dancing” are urging for Thomas Skinner to be removed from the upcoming 2025 series following an incident where he abruptly left an interview and took a reporter’s phone. The former contestant of “The Apprentice,” aged 34, decided to exit a roundtable interview at the BBC’s Elstree Studios, stating, ‘I’m not doing this,’ before grabbing a reporter’s phone.
This controversy arose shortly after Skinner expressed on social media that he stands by his beliefs and will not conform to please others. His participation in this season’s “Strictly Come Dancing” has sparked criticism due to his polarizing statements on platforms like Twitter, where he defended patriotism and expressed concerns about safety in London.
During a press day for the show, Skinner caused a stir by objecting to a reporter recording the interview and ultimately storming out of the room, leaving his fellow contestant, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, to handle the interviews alone.
Witnesses described Skinner’s behavior as unexpected and unsettling, with organizers and BBC executives reportedly considering his future on the show. Fans have taken to social media to demand his removal from the series before it airs later this year.
In response to the backlash, Skinner defended his stance on social media, emphasizing his commitment to authenticity and refusing to conform to popular opinions merely for popularity. Despite the controversy, BBC director-general Tim Davie defended the decision to cast Skinner on the show, stating that while they avoid individuals with extreme or unacceptable views, Skinner’s participation was based on his perceived appeal to the audience.
The situation has stirred up strong reactions from viewers, with many expressing disappointment and calling for Skinner’s removal from the show due to his behavior leading up to the season premiere.
