Former The Apprentice star Tom Skinner is reportedly set to front a new fly-on-the-wall documentary series that will delve into his controversial stint on Strictly Come Dancing and his broader personal and professional life. The television personality, who was the first celebrity eliminated from the latest series of the BBC dance competition, has secured the project following months of public drama surrounding his exit.
Strictly Controversy and Voting Dispute
Skinner's time on Strictly was marked by significant controversy, culminating in his early departure from the show. He was partnered with professional dancer Amy Dowden, but his experience quickly soured. The TV star has publicly claimed that he received an anonymous email after his elimination, purportedly from a BBC executive, suggesting that he had garnered far more viewer votes than was officially indicated.
"On the night I left the show, I received an anonymous email claiming to be from a BBC exec with stats, saying I’d received far more votes than it appeared and it wasn’t right. I’ve since had the email independently verified," Skinner stated at the time. He further explained that his requests to see the official voting figures to corroborate the email's claims were denied by the BBC, a practice he noted has been consistent throughout the show's history.
Regrets and Aftermath
Following his absence from the Strictly final, Skinner expressed deep regret about participating in the programme. "If I’m being completely honest, I really regret doing Strictly Come Dancing. I wish I’d never done it," he admitted. He highlighted that the only positive outcome was forming a friendship with Amy Dowden, whom he described as "a genuinely lovely person."
However, Skinner emphasised that the experience brought him a "huge amount of negative attention" that affected him more than he anticipated. Despite the friction, he clarified that he holds no animosity towards the BBC, acknowledging that the broadcaster gave him his "big break" on The Apprentice years ago. "I’m not looking for conflict. I just want to get on with my life," he added.
New Documentary Venture
Now, reports indicate that Skinner is leading a documentary project that will likely feature extensive coverage of his Strictly ordeal. According to a source speaking to The Sun, the show is inspired by classic reality series like The Osbournes, which popularised the fly-on-the-wall format. "Execs are likely to clamour to bag the show once it’s completed. Thomas is a popular figure who has had the busiest six months of his life filled with everything from politics to the cha-cha-cha," the source revealed.
The insider added that Skinner has been motivated by numerous "At Home With..." style programmes and believes his unique experiences—from his pre-Strictly controversy involving a photo with US vice president JD Vance to his dramatic exit from the dance floor—make for compelling television. The documentary aims to provide an unfiltered look into his life, capturing both the highs and lows of his recent public journey.
Broader Implications and Interest
This documentary could spark wider discussions about transparency in reality TV voting and the personal toll of celebrity participation in high-pressure shows. Skinner's candid reflections on his Strictly regret and the alleged voting discrepancies may resonate with viewers and industry observers alike. As the project develops, it is expected to attract significant attention from television executives eager to capitalise on Skinner's relatable yet tumultuous narrative.
Ultimately, the series promises to offer a nuanced portrait of a public figure navigating fame, controversy, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of one of Britain's most beloved entertainment programmes.
