Tom Skinner made a dramatic exit during a Strictly Come Dancing interview, expressing his discontent by abruptly leaving the session. The former Apprentice contestant, now known for his social media presence, disturbed the interview by taking a reporter’s phone and refusing to continue. This incident occurred after Skinner had previously stated his unwavering stance on not compromising his beliefs for popularity.
Skinner, aged 34, has stirred controversy since joining the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing lineup this season. His online posts, particularly on Twitter, have sparked criticism for expressing views on patriotism and safety in London that some find contentious. Despite his active online presence, Skinner displayed a reluctance to engage in face-to-face conversations, especially during the press event for Strictly Come Dancing.
His unexpected behavior at the event left organizers and BBC officials contemplating his future on the show. Skinner’s actions were triggered by a simple question from a female journalist, leading to an uncomfortable exchange where he seized her phone mid-interview. This incident followed a cryptic tweet from Skinner earlier that day emphasizing his dedication to authenticity over popularity.
The incident involving Skinner occurred shortly after BBC director-general Tim Davie defended the decision to include him in the show’s lineup. Davie clarified that the selection process considers audience interest and suitability, ensuring that contestants’ views align with acceptable standards. Despite criticism from TV presenter Narinder Kaur regarding Skinner’s casting, Davie maintained that the show’s team diligently selects participants to ensure a diverse and engaging lineup.
Skinner’s involvement in the show has been a topic of debate, with his recent actions raising concerns about his compatibility with the show’s standards. As the show prepares to return with a diverse cast, including contestants like Dani Dyer-Bowen and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Skinner’s behavior has added a layer of uncertainty to his continued participation in Strictly Come Dancing.