Strictly Come Dancing star Thomas Skinner complains he doesn’t get paid as much as other celebs for gigs as he reveals he’s still delivering mattresses during rehearsals for BBC show

Thomas Skinner has expressed dissatisfaction, stating he feels underpaid compared to other famous figures when it comes to television guest spots and commercial endorsements.

The popular Strictly Come Dancing contestant, aged 34, gained recognition through The Apprentice and will grace the dance floor towards the end of the current year.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but share my thoughts about a recent rumor that’s been circulating. You see, I stumbled upon a tweet (alas, now vanished) by the one and only Thomas, questioning the financial prosperity of fellow celebrities. Amidst his busy Strictly rehearsals, he finds himself still delivering mattresses in his van, all while these other stars seem to be swimming in wealth. It’s a thought-provoking observation, wouldn’t you agree?

On social media platform X, Thomas posted: “I wonder how celebrities accumulate so much wealth? It’s not like they earn hefty sums from television appearances or advertisements (at least I don’t).

However, I find myself checking Instagram, and it seems like they are constantly at some place or showcasing a new vehicle. Earlier today, I wrapped up my Strictly duties, and now I’m on the road in my van, delivering mattresses.

‘Do I need to be part of a special club now on the tele that’s gives ya unlimited monies.’

He consistently draws upon his blue-collar upbringing, evident in his affection for hearty breakfasts at his preferred diner and his well-known “Bosh” exclamation.

However, it has been recently mentioned by The Daily Mail that contrary to appearances, the former Apprentice contestant did not grow up in poverty. Instead, he resided in a house valued over £2.5 million and attended a prestigious private school.

Thomas described his father in his autobiography as an energetic and lively person, and someone who worked hard, much like himself. He also referred to him as a man who avoided trouble and was always willing to put in effort.

Instead of facing financial hardship, it was his father Lee, whom he called ‘The Governor’, who was a highly successful marketing executive and businessman. He once owned a collection of Lamborghinis until he encountered bankruptcy due to an alleged investment scam in which he lost investors approximately £3.6 million.

The publication in 2023 of the book titled “Graft, How to Smash Life” bypassed significant aspects of his childhood, revealing that he and his family originally resided in a humble terraced house in Romford, Essex.

Despite elaborating on his mother’s diligent efforts to make ends meet, the book omitted the fact that he and his family resided in a spacious detached house with an expansive driveway and lush front yard in Gidea Park, Romford from 2002 until 2014.

The substantial house where Thomas spent his childhood was sold for £2.5 million back in 2017, and currently serves as accommodation for individuals under supported living arrangements.

Thomas’s stringent choice to interact with Vice President JD Vance for a photograph has sparked debate among followers, as they express disappointment over his decision.

But Thomas hit back, saying he was defiant and ‘excited’ and said the flak was unfair.

He clarified to the Daily Mail, “I don’t identify as being on the right-wing side. The misconception that I am so stems from attending a barbecue with JD Vance and posting a photo together; people simply followed the trend without questioning it first.

‘Who is gonna turn down an opportunity to meet the 2nd most powerful man in the world?’, he added. 

Some individuals may dislike you without truly understanding who you are, but that’s acceptable. I hope they prosper. We’re all unique, and not everyone perceives life the same way. If their negativity or resentment needs a target, I’d rather it be directed at me than spoil someone else’s day. I can handle it.

In early June, Thomas attended a barbecue graciously extended by JD Vance, and later on, he surfaced as the tenth celebrity competitor on Strictly Come Dancing.

Under the BBC’s tweet announcing his participation, there were a number of angry responses.

The booking was terribly disappointing, as his perspective seemed to stray from the expected focus. BBC, it’s unfortunate that this happened.

1. “Does he have celebrity status, or do I perceive him as merely a manipulative and dislikable individual?”

2. “Initially, I believed he was just a despicable con artist. But now… I won’t be attending this year’s event. This final decision is made.”

3. “Is he known for his celebrity status? Or does it seem to me that he’s simply a shrewd and disliked individual?

In the second example, I tried to make the paraphrase more conversational by using “I was already thinking” instead of “Initially,” and “this seals it” for emphasis. In the third example, I provided a different structure while preserving the original meaning.

But Thomas dismissed the critics and said he can’t wait to get started.

Instead of constantly arguing and raising our voices, let’s engage in meaningful dialogue, lend an ear, and strive for understanding. This world could use more thoughtful conversations rather than unnecessary commotion, he suggested.

Thomas surprisingly received an invitation to share a barbecue and beverages with JD Vance, following the political figure’s admiration for Thomas’s uplifting and positive social media content, at his Cotswolds vacation villa.

In his statement, Thomas expressed great enthusiasm about becoming a part of the Strictly Come Dancing series: “I can hardly contain my excitement about joining Strictly Come Dancing!

In my experience, I’ve handled high-stakes meetings and large breakfasts, but dancing under the disco ball takes it to a whole new level!

I’ve never truly danced before, except perhaps at weddings, but I’m eager and prepared to put in the effort, all while enjoying myself. Let the glittering costumes, sambas, and above all, the energetic moves on the dance floor begin!

In the morning hours, Thomas subtly announced his latest job by posting a photo on social media, showing his breakfast from Dino’s Cafe – a place he frequents every day at approximately 5:30 a.m.

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2025-08-27 21:35