Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Tom Skinner has broken his silence after choosing to skip the show's 2025 live final, opting for a quiet pint in Essex instead. The move comes amid swirling reports that the Apprentice star is considering legal action against the BBC over his early exit from the competition.
A Pub Visit Over The Ballroom
While the remaining finalists and eliminated celebrities prepared for the grand finale in London, Tom Skinner was photographed enjoying a cigarette and a drink outside the Thatcher's Arms pub in Great Warley, Essex. He confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) on 20 December that he would not be attending the final. Far from the glitz of the studio, he was dressed casually in grey cargo trousers, a dark blue gilet, and a green jumper.
The pub is located near where Skinner runs a seafood stall, marking a stark contrast to the sequinned costumes of the Strictly ballroom. His former professional dance partner, Amy Dowden, was among those rehearsing for the final's traditional group dance involving all contestants.
The Allegations and Social Media Statement
Skinner took to social media to explain his absence in detail. He stated that before deciding, he consulted with Amy Dowden to ensure she was comfortable with his choice, calling her a "good person and a good friend."
He revealed that shortly after his elimination, he received an anonymous email purporting to be from a BBC executive. The email allegedly contained statistics suggesting he had received significantly more public votes than was indicated, calling his exit into question. Skinner claims to have had the email independently verified.
Furthermore, the message reportedly suggested BBC higher-ups were "angry and nervous" because Skinner had met with US Vice President JD Vance. The star said he asked the BBC to see the official voting figures to compare but was refused.
Potential Legal Action and BBC Response
Skinner expressed "genuine respect" for senior BBC staff and the welfare team he contacted but said they advised him to seek legal counsel "because of how unfair it all was." He also mentioned feeling singled out as the only contestant not to receive a welcome gift, which he found "strange" and unfair.
While a source told The Sun that Skinner was "suing" the broadcaster, the star himself has not confirmed this. The BBC has stated it has received no legal paperwork and defended its voting process. A spokesperson told The Mirror: "Strictly Come Dancing's public vote is robust and independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy."
Skinner concluded his statement by saying he felt compelled to share his side "so that people know the truth" and insisted he was not bitter about his experience on the show. He is set to return to screens in a Christmas special of The Apprentice.
