The live final of BBC's Strictly Come Dancing 2025 will proceed without one of its former contestants, breaking a long-standing show tradition. Thomas Skinner, the 34-year-old star from The Apprentice, has reportedly dropped out of the grand finale scheduled for Saturday, December 20th.
A Broken Strictly Tradition
In a departure from standard Strictly Come Dancing procedure, Thomas Skinner will not return to the ballroom for the final episode. Skinner was the first celebrity to be eliminated from this year's competition alongside his professional partner, the beloved Amy Dowden. Traditionally, all contestants reunite for the last show to participate in a final group dance.
According to reports, Skinner has a prior commitment that clashes with the live recording, forcing his absence. Despite this, Amy Dowden is still expected to perform, taking to the floor with her fellow professional dancers for one last time this series.
A Significant Finale for the Hosts
This year's final carries extra sentimental weight as it marks the last episode hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. The duo, who have fronted the show for years, are departing after this series concludes.
All other stars from the 2025 series are confirmed to return. This includes Geordie Shore's Vicky Pattison and Emmerdale's Lewis Cope. They will be joined by a host of other former contestants like drag queen La Voix, showbiz expert Ross King, and Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey for what promises to be an emotional reunion.
The Finalists and a Season of Controversy
Competing for the Glitterball Trophy on Saturday night are West End star Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin, who will face off against YouTuber George Clarke, Alexis Warr, and Lioness Karen Carney with Carlos Gu.
Amber Davies, who entered the competition as a last-minute replacement after an injury to fellow Love Island winner Dani Dyer, recently became tearful on spin-off show It Takes Two while reflecting on her journey. "I can't believe I'm here," she said.
Thomas Skinner's time on the show was not without its off-floor dramas. He faced significant backlash for his social media activity, most notably for posting a selfie with US Vice President JD Vance. His pairing with popular pro Amy Dowden also divided viewers' opinions from the outset.
The final will also feature reflections from recently eliminated contestants. EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, who lost her place to Amber Davies in the dance-off, spoke fondly of her experience. Her professional partner, Julian Caillon, praised her unwavering spirit, stating she "embodies what this competition is about."
