Should Strictly Cut Thomas Skinner for the Good of the Show?

Thomas Skinner's tumultuous behaviour during the press day for Strictly Come Dancing has raised eyebrows, especially as he became the first celebrity in the show's 21-year history to 'storm out' of an event. This incident has sparked discussions about his suitability for the show and the implications for the BBC amid ongoing controversies.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Thomas Skinner became the first celebrity to 'storm out' of a Strictly Come Dancing press event.
• His reaction was reportedly triggered by a relatively innocuous question.
• Skinner's behaviour raises questions about his ability to handle media scrutiny.
• The incident has led to crisis meetings at the BBC regarding his participation.
• There are concerns about the implications for the show's reputation.

The Incident: A Breakdown

During the press day, Skinner participated in just two interviews before abruptly leaving. The issue began when he became aware that he was being recorded. According to reports, he reacted defensively, asking, "Why am I being recorded?" This seemed surprising given that all participants typically understand this is part of the media process. Following this, he reportedly snatched a female journalist's phone, which had been used to record the conversation.

Apology and Public Reaction

In the aftermath of the incident, Skinner issued a statement apologising for his actions. He claimed that he had grabbed the phone after seeing a message that "caught him off guard." Despite this explanation, many remain sceptical of his ability to manage the pressures of a high-profile show like Strictly Come Dancing.

Concerns About Temperament

Skinner's behaviour during the press event raises significant concerns about his temperament. His history of trolling on social media and previous controversial statements suggest that he may not be prepared for the intense scrutiny that comes with participating in a show as popular and widely viewed as Strictly. The incident has led to discussions about whether his presence on the show is justified.

The BBC's Dilemma

The BBC is now facing a difficult decision regarding Skinner's future on the show. There are various factors to consider, including the potential backlash from viewers should they choose to remove him. Conversely, keeping him in the competition raises questions about the message it sends regarding acceptable behaviour and the type of contestants the show wants to attract.

Historical Context

Strictly Come Dancing has faced its fair share of controversies in recent years, and this latest incident adds another layer of complexity. The show has been scrutinised for its choices of contestants and the various backgrounds they represent. Skinner's addition to the line-up was already seen as odd by many, making this incident even more impactful.

What Happens Next?

The BBC is reportedly holding crisis meetings to discuss Skinner's future. There are two main paths the network can take: either retain Skinner, which may lead to accusations of stifling a right-wing voice, or remove him and face potential backlash from his supporters. In either case, the decision comes with its challenges.

The Impact on Strictly Come Dancing

Skinner's behaviour not only affects his standing on the show but also casts a shadow over the upcoming series. Fans and critics alike are expressing concern about the direction the show is taking. The importance of selecting contestants who embody the spirit of Strictly is paramount, and Skinner's actions have created a dilemma for the producers.

Conclusion: A Call for Reflection

Ultimately, the decision regarding Skinner's participation in Strictly Come Dancing will set a precedent for the show moving forward. It raises questions about the type of behaviour that is acceptable in the public eye and how the BBC will navigate this complex landscape. Should the network prioritise the integrity of the show and its values, or appease a potentially volatile public reaction? Only time will tell how this situation unfolds.

FAQs

What happened during Thomas Skinner's press day for Strictly Come Dancing?

Thomas Skinner became the first celebrity to storm out of a Strictly press day, reacting defensively to a question and snatching a journalist's phone. This incident raised concerns about his temperament for the show.

Why did Thomas Skinner apologise after the incident?

Skinner apologised for grabbing the journalist's phone, claiming that a message on the screen caught him off guard. However, many remain sceptical about his ability to handle media scrutiny.

What are the implications of Skinner's behaviour for his participation in Strictly Come Dancing?

The incident has led to crisis meetings at the BBC to discuss whether Skinner should remain on the show. His actions raise questions about the standards for contestants and the show's integrity.

What has the public reaction been to Skinner's behaviour?

Public reaction has been mixed, with concerns about his suitability for the show and the potential impact on Strictly's reputation. Some fans believe he should be removed, while others argue against censorship of right-leaning voices.

How has Strictly Come Dancing dealt with controversies in the past?

Strictly has faced various controversies over the years regarding contestant selections and their backgrounds. Each incident has prompted discussions about representation and the show's values.