Strictly’s Thomas Skinner looks tense in first sighting since his epic press day meltdown – as it’s revealed he’ll remain on the show despite backlash

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As a devoted admirer of Thomas Skinner, I couldn’t help but notice his visibly tense demeanor during our recent encounter, marking the first sighting since his high-profile breakdown at Strictly Come Dancing’s press day this week.

On Tuesday, the ex-Apprentice contestant, aged 34, surprised reporters when, during a press event, he snatched a female journalist’s phone before abruptly leaving following his discomfort with being filmed. This behavior was unusual given that recording is common practice at such events.

In response to increasing criticism over his removal, the BBC has chosen to support Thomas, as reported by the Daily Mail on Wednesday, indicating that he will continue on the program.

Despite receiving support from the BBC, Thomas struggled to elicit laughter when he was spotted running errands in Borehamwood the day following his press day outburst, still not managing to generate a smile.

Thomas, dressed comfortably in a polo shirt and shorts, quickly ducked into the store to grab a bottled water while keeping his gaze lowered.

The man with three children seemed to show signs of fatigue, wincing occasionally, as he walked back towards Elstree Studios for a pre-recording session of the Strictly Come Dancing launch program.

Thomas, who appeared downcast, had learned he would continue on the program.

It was reported by The Daily Mail that there were emergency meetings concerning the market trader’s role in the dance show due to his actions during the media event. At this gathering, he took a female journalist’s phone and left abruptly after completing only two promotional interviews.

When a reporter inquired about Thomas joining Strictly Come Dancing this season, he declined to respond, and surprisingly grabbed her phone, seeming agitated that the conversation was being documented.

It is thought that the incident prompted worries about his behavior, and, in an effort to prevent further controversy after a series of scandals, Strictly’s leaders requested a thorough explanation regarding his abrupt departure.

It was not possible to find him at Elstree Studios in Borehamwood, where the press event occurred, according to the Strictly press team.

This year, it has been verified that Thomas is still included in the cast for Strictly Come Dancing, despite some people suggesting he was struggling during the press conference on Tuesday.

According to a source familiar with Thomas, he expresses clear remorse for his actions on Tuesday, as reported by The Daily Mail.

Thomas might have been part of significant television productions previously, yet he admits that this experience feels novel to him, particularly the atmosphere of a press day, characterized by numerous reporters posing queries.

In my experience, although I’ve participated in Celebrity MasterChef and The Apprentice earlier, the nature of these programs is that they are pre-recorded. The pressure and scrutiny I’m experiencing on Strictly Come Dancing, however, is a whole new ball game; it’s safe to say I find myself swimming in waters that seem incredibly deep.

Before the press day started, he was relishing the Strictly dance rehearsals. Now, he wishes to concentrate solely on dancing and is eagerly anticipating the first live performance.

According to an inside source, Tom appeared unusually tense and struggled during the press conference, behaving oddly and even reaching for his phone – something that’s out of character for him.

Following a lengthy debate regarding his ability to handle the stress of the series, it was concluded that Tom was capable and thus, he was allowed to continue.

This incident has left him feeling extremely awkward, and he’s been open about moving forward without dwelling on it. The BBC supports him in this progression.

Thomas’s friend, media commentator Adam Brooks from GB News, clarified that the former Apprentice star was not actually eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing.

Writing on X on Tuesday night, Adam said: ‘I spoke to him an hour ago and he’s still on the show.’

The Daily Mail has contacted Thomas and the BBC for comment. 

Regardless of Tom continuing on the show, Pundit Arena suggests that he might still be let go, as they believe there is a high probability for his dismissal.

As suggested by the information on the website, there’s a high probability that he will leave the dance competition – an estimated 60% indicates he might be compulsorily removed from the lineup.

Criticism arose among liberal viewers of the BBC program following Thomas’s disclosure about his unexpected bond with U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, as they question his signing style.

Through their shared political views on social media, the duo became connected. Last month, during his vacation in the Cotswolds, Thomas received an invitation from Vance to join a barbecue gathering.

Thomas posted a snap of the pair together on Instagram and called it ‘a once in a lifetime’ event.

I had an extraordinary evening out with JD and his delightful circle of friends and family. His impeccable manners truly made an impression. We shared countless laughs and enjoyed sumptuous cuisine that was simply outstanding. It was an unforgettable night, one I’ll cherish and happily pass down to future generations.

He remarked, “Dressing formally in a suit, I might be, but when the Vice President invites you to a barbecue, it’s better not to chance showing up in shorts and flip-flops.

Thomas has worn a “Make America Great Again” hat before and publicly supported Donald Trump, expressing his feelings in November last year: “I admire Trump. I believe he is intelligent, that’s my viewpoint. I think it’s beneficial he’s back as president, it should be positive for the UK economy.

On various social platforms, certain fans asserted it was not suitable or potentially risky for Thomas to have a presence on Strictly due to his political views.

A user commented: ‘It would be better for Strictly to understand that being contentious is not endearing, and featuring someone like Thomas Skinner, especially during these politically charged times, can be seen as inappropriate and potentially harmful.’

For the past few weeks, Tom has been diligently working out to prepare himself for his favorite show that his mother adores – the dance series.

I wholeheartedly believe that my actions are aimed at representing the everyday men – the pint-swiggling, kebab-loving dads who sport a beer belly, just like myself.

Prior to gaining fame in 2011, Tom had a run-in with the law over allegations of dealing with stolen items.

In my professional capacity, I found myself facing allegations for mismanaging approximately 4,992 bottles of The Body Shop’s cleansing gels, valued at around £40,000, and unlawfully possessing roughly 2,000 diazepam tablets.

This statement maintains the original meaning while providing a more conversational tone from a lifestyle expert’s perspective.

In February, he felt compelled to address his previous minor offenses, following criticism from internet trolls for having witnessed a robbery at a Greggs bakery.

He angrily criticized some people for theft, even though they were dressed in high-end clothing and furs. He exclaimed, “What’s going on?” concerning the nation’s state, but social media users quickly pointed out his own criminal history and labeled him a ‘hypocrite.’

Responding to X, he asserted: ‘I find it astonishing that individuals are criticizing me on Twitter over my statement about Greggs being robbed while I was there. To make matters worse, they’ve dug up my past. Yes, I have been arrested numerous times in the past. I’ve even faced charges and served time for those convictions. I’ve written a book detailing that part of my life.’

At certain stages during my youth, I didn’t have a bedroom of my own and instead would sleep on a pull-out bed that was placed on the floor.

Despite starting with nothing, I managed to change my circumstances for the better. I often visit schools, colleges, and universities to share my experiences, in the hope that my story might motivate others.

He stated, “I’m not a hero, but simply a dedicated worker. I’ve certainly made mistakes – more than many, it seems – but who hasn’t made a mistake? Now, I strive to promote positivity. My younger years were marked by violence due to my actions, and that’s why I engage in my anti-knife crime campaign at my gym.

It’s crucial for us to step out into reality and recognize that our nation faces challenges. By working together, we have the potential to address these issues effectively.

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2025-09-10 13:04