Thomas Skinner made a sudden exit from a press interview for Strictly Come Dancing, expressing his refusal to continue. The reality TV star left the interview room at BBC’s Elstree Studios after grabbing a reporter’s phone. This incident occurred shortly after Skinner had shared with his followers his commitment to authenticity and not compromising his beliefs to please others.
Skinner, a controversial addition to this season’s Strictly lineup, has faced criticism for his social media comments on patriotism and safety in London. While known for his outspoken online presence, Skinner objected to being recorded during a press event, which is a common practice for such occasions.
Accompanied by fellow contestant Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Skinner’s unexpected behavior surprised many at the press day. Witnesses described him as initially upbeat but then abruptly grabbing a reporter’s phone in response to being recorded. Organizers and BBC officials are reportedly discussing his future on the show following this incident.
During the press event, a female journalist’s attempt to inquire about Skinner’s motivation for joining Strictly led to the confrontation over recording. Skinner’s actions have raised concerns, with BBC’s director-general defending the decision to cast him on the show to a parliamentary committee.
Despite the controversy, Skinner is set to join other celebrities like Love Island winner Dani Dyer-Bowen and former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink on the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing. The show is also making history by featuring Ellie Goldstein, the first contestant with Down’s syndrome to participate in the full series.