Why Did Thomas Skinner Apologize for His Strictly Interview Exit?

Thomas Skinner, a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing, recently apologised for an incident during a press interview where he picked up a journalist's phone after seeing a personal message that took him by surprise. The former Apprentice star clarified that his actions were not related to the show itself, emphasising his excitement to participate in the upcoming series.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Thomas Skinner apologised for picking up a journalist's phone during a press interview.
• The incident was triggered by a personal message he unexpectedly saw on the screen.
• Skinner confirmed he is excited to participate in Strictly Come Dancing.
• BBC director general Tim Davie defended Skinner's casting on the show amidst criticism.
• Skinner has a mixed public perception, with strong support and some backlash.

What Happened During the Press Interviews?

During a series of roundtable interviews aimed at promoting the new season of Strictly Come Dancing, Thomas Skinner left abruptly after an unexpected incident. As he was conversing with journalists, he noticed a message on a reporter's phone that referenced a personal story from his past. This sighting reportedly caught him off guard, prompting him to excuse himself from the interview to gather his thoughts.

Skinner's Clarification

Following the incident, Skinner took to social media to clarify his actions, stating, "I happened to catch a glimpse of the screen and saw numerous messages – not about Strictly, but about a personal story from my past." He expressed that seeing this message brought back memories of difficult times he has worked hard to overcome. He reassured fans that his departure from the interview was unrelated to Strictly Come Dancing itself.

The Celebrity Interviews Format

The interviews Skinner participated in were conducted in a roundtable format, allowing multiple journalists to engage with celebrities for short periods, akin to speed-dating. This format is designed to foster quick exchanges and cover various topics in a limited timeframe. However, Skinner's exit was notably premature, leaving some questions unanswered in the press circuit.

Skinner's Background

Thomas Skinner first rose to prominence as a contestant on The Apprentice in 2019. Since then, he has appeared on numerous television programmes, including 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Wheel, and Celebrity MasterChef. In addition to his television career, Skinner is known for his engaging social media presence, where he shares motivational content aimed at promoting positive thinking. He also runs several small businesses, including a gym, and is a regular contributor to TalkSport Radio.

Controversies Surrounding Skinner

Despite his popularity, Skinner has not been without controversy. His social media posts have drawn criticism, particularly one featuring a photo with US Vice President JD Vance and another where he donned a "Make America Great Again" cap. These incidents led to discussions about his political affiliations and public persona.

Skinner has defended himself against accusations of being right-wing, asserting that many critics form opinions based on superficial observations. He expressed frustration over being labelled merely for attending a BBQ with a high-profile political figure, asserting that such opportunities are too valuable to decline.

BBC's Defence of Skinner's Casting

In light of the backlash, BBC director general Tim Davie spoke out in defence of Skinner’s casting on Strictly Come Dancing. During a session with MPs, he explained that the production team selects contestants based on their potential to engage audiences and that they would not cast anyone whose views are deemed unacceptable. Davie's comments highlight the careful considerations involved in choosing participants for the show.

Understanding Public Reactions

Public reaction to Skinner's involvement in Strictly is divided. While many fans admire his enthusiasm for traditional values and his efforts in campaigning against issues like knife crime, others have expressed discontent with his political associations. This dichotomy reflects broader societal debates about celebrity culture and political representation.

What’s Next for Thomas Skinner?

With the new series of Strictly Come Dancing set to begin later this month, Skinner is looking forward to showcasing his dancing skills. He reassured fans of his dedication to the competition, stating, "I'm so grateful for all the love, kindness and support I've been shown so far. It means the world to me." His commitment to giving his best performance on the dancefloor may help shift focus from recent controversies to his abilities as a contestant.

Implications for Contestants on Reality TV

The situation with Skinner raises important questions about the personal lives of contestants on reality television shows. As public figures, their past experiences can sometimes resurface in unexpected ways, affecting their participation and public perception. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for sensitivity and understanding in media interactions, especially regarding personal histories.

Conclusion

As Thomas Skinner prepares for his appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, the public will be watching closely, both for his performances and how he navigates the ongoing scrutiny of his personal and professional life. His experiences illustrate the complexities faced by reality TV stars in balancing public expectations with their private narratives. How will Skinner's journey unfold on the dancefloor, and can he successfully shift the narrative back to his talents? Only time will tell.

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FAQs

What prompted Thomas Skinner to leave the press interviews?

Thomas Skinner left the press interviews after unexpectedly seeing a personal message on a journalist's phone, which caught him off guard and reminded him of difficult times from his past.

What has Thomas Skinner said about his participation in Strictly Come Dancing?

Thomas Skinner has expressed his excitement about participating in Strictly Come Dancing, stating that he is eager to give it his all on the dancefloor and appreciates the support from his fans.

How did the BBC respond to criticism of Skinner's casting?

BBC director general Tim Davie defended Skinner's casting by stating that the production team selects contestants based on their potential to engage audiences, emphasising that they would not cast anyone with unacceptable views.

What controversies has Thomas Skinner faced recently?

Thomas Skinner has faced criticism for his social media posts, particularly those involving political figures and symbols, which some have interpreted as indicative of a right-wing stance.

What is the format of the interviews that Skinner participated in?

The interviews were conducted in a roundtable format, allowing celebrities to engage with multiple journalists for brief periods, similar to a speed-dating style of questioning.