Former The Apprentice contestant Thomas Skinner has publicly addressed his decision to take legal action against the BBC, following his controversial early exit from Strictly Come Dancing. In a detailed statement, Skinner alleges that negative press about his personal life and a friendship with US Vice President JD Vance played a role in his removal from the competition.
The Allegations: Voting Irregularities and Political Pressure
Skinner revealed that on the night he was voted off the show, he received an anonymous email purportedly from a BBC executive. The email contained statistics suggesting he had received far more public votes than was officially announced. Skinner claims to have had this email independently verified.
He further stated that the same email mentioned BBC executives were "very angry and nervous" simply because he had met US Vice President JD Vance. Skinner, who insists he is "not a political bloke," said this connection created an unexpected backlash.
After discussing the email with senior BBC staff and the welfare team, Skinner was advised to seek legal counsel. "They was the ones who advised me to get legal advice because of how unfair it all was. (This was not my idea)," he wrote.
A Pattern of Peculiar Events
Beyond the voting controversy, Skinner pointed to smaller incidents that contributed to his sense of unease. He noted that while all contestants received a welcome gift pack, his was the only one that allegedly "got stolen." On its own, he admitted it was minor, but combined with other events, it felt strange.
He also referenced the stepping down of the show's main hosts the following week, calling it a "coincidence" but part of a bizarre pattern. Skinner was clear he wasn't directly linking these events to his situation but emphasised the odd timing.
Breaking Silence and Seeking Fairness
Skinner issued his statement to explain why he would not be attending the Strictly final, wanting to prevent any perception of bitterness. "I'm not kicking off for attention," he asserted. "I'm not saying I should've won either. I was rubbish at dancing, we all know that."
However, he stressed his belief in fairness and respect, highlighting his significant public following and his right to transparent voting figures. He said his requests to see the official numbers were denied, with the BBC stating they had never been shown in the show's history.
A BBC spokesperson previously told The Sun: “Strictly Come Dancing’s public vote is robust and independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy.”
Skinner concluded by wishing the finalists well, stating his focus was now on his fish stall and his family. His legal action against the broadcaster proceeds as he seeks clarity over his abrupt departure from the dance floor.
