STRICTLY COME DANCING STAR THOMAS SKINNER ‘SUING BBC’ OVER SHOCK EARLY EXIT

Former The Apprentice star Thomas Skinner is reportedly taking legal action against the BBC after becoming the first celebrity eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing 2025, claiming that the public vote was manipulated to force him out of the competition.

The outspoken businessman, who was paired with a professional dancer for this year’s series, was voted off during the opening results show following a performance that quickly became one of the most talked-about, and divisive, moments of the new Strictly season.

According to reports, Thomas believes he received enough public votes to avoid the dance-off, and is said to be determined to prove that the voting process was unfairly influenced amid a wave of negative headlines surrounding his personal life.

The BBC has not commented directly on the claims, but sources close to the situation suggest Thomas is convinced that producers were “hell-bent” on removing him from the show as early as possible.

Thomas had already been viewed as a controversial signing before the series even began. Known for his outspoken opinions and larger-than-life personality on The Apprentice, he divided opinion among Strictly viewers from the outset. That controversy only intensified when he admitted to cheating on his wife Sinead just weeks after they married, a confession that sparked widespread criticism online and in the press.

Despite the backlash, Thomas is said to believe that public support for him was stronger than the results suggested.

A source told The Sun:

“Thomas is absolutely convinced that he had the public behind him. He believes the BBC rigged the vote to ensure he was the first out, especially after all the bad press.”

The insider added:

“He feels he never stood a fair chance. No matter how many fans voted for him, he’s convinced the decision had already been made.”

The situation has been further sensationalised by claims that Thomas is preparing to formally challenge the broadcaster at a time when the BBC is already facing significant legal pressure.

Another source said:

“The BBC is already facing a £7.5 billion lawsuit from Donald Trump, now Thomas, who is said to be a friend of Vice President JD Vance, is taking them on too.”

While those claims are unverified, they have added to the dramatic narrative surrounding what is usually one of the BBC’s most family-friendly and trusted shows.

Thomas’s elimination came after a performance that many viewers described as uncomfortable viewing. Social media was flooded with reaction during the live show, with some fans joking they were “traumatised” by the routine, while others defended his effort and accused critics of being overly harsh.

Thomas and Amy Dowden faced off against ex-England rugby star Chris Robshaw and pro Nadiya Bychkova - Credit: PA

Strictly’s voting system has long been a topic of discussion among fans. The show combines judges’ scores with the public vote, with the two lowest-ranked celebrities facing off in the dance-off. The judges then decide who stays, a format that has previously led to accusations of unfairness, though the BBC has consistently maintained that the process is transparent and independently verified.

At the time of Thomas’s exit, presenters reminded viewers that the results are audited, and that Strictly’s voting procedures meet broadcasting standards. However, Thomas is reportedly confident that legal scrutiny would uncover discrepancies.

So far, the BBC has declined to respond to the allegations directly, and there is no confirmation that formal legal papers have been filed. A spokesperson is expected to address the claims if and when legal action progresses.

For Strictly fans aged 30 and over, the controversy has cast a shadow over what is traditionally seen as a feel-good Saturday night staple. While the show has weathered scandals before, from shock eliminations to behind-the-scenes drama, it remains one of the BBC’s biggest ratings winners.

Whether Thomas Skinner’s claims will gain traction or quietly disappear remains to be seen. What is certain is that his brief Strictly journey has already secured its place in the show’s long history of headline-grabbing moments.