Reality TV personality Thomas Skinner has launched a sensational legal battle against the BBC, alleging that the broadcaster rigged the public vote on Strictly Come Dancing to force him out of the competition prematurely.
The Allegations of Vote Manipulation
Skinner, who rose to fame on The Apprentice, and his professional partner Amy Dowden were the first couple eliminated from the 2025 series. The elimination process combined judges' scores from the opening two weeks with the results of a public vote. While the exact figures for public support are never disclosed by the BBC, Skinner is now said to be convinced he received a significantly larger share of viewer votes than was reflected in the outcome.
According to a source speaking to The Sun, Skinner is "adamant" about his claim and believes he has gathered evidence to support it. "He is determined to see it through, but there’s no way the BBC will take this sensational claim lying down," the insider stated. The source also likened Skinner's actions to those of former US President Donald Trump, who has frequently challenged electoral results.
BBC's Response and Ongoing Conflict
When approached for comment by the Mirror, a BBC spokesperson robustly defended the show's integrity, stating: "Strictly Come Dancing's public vote is robust and independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy." Sources within the corporation added that, as of the report on 18th December 2025, no formal legal complaint or paperwork had been received from Skinner regarding the matter.
The dispute appears to have caused a significant rift. The Sun's source claimed Skinner has been "locked in rows with bosses ever since he was sent home" and that he is convinced the BBC was "hell-bent on getting him out as soon as possible." This alleged animosity is said to have led to Skinner declining an invitation to return for the series finale, though it is also reported he had a prior commitment.
Controversy Beyond the Dancefloor
Skinner's time on Strictly was overshadowed by controversy from the start. Prior to the launch, he faced backlash for a social media post featuring US Vice President JD Vance. He also reportedly stormed out of the show's press launch and snatched a journalist's phone.
Further scandals emerged, including an admission that he cheated on his wife shortly after their wedding. The Mirror also revealed that one of his companies had not repaid a £50,000 Covid bounce back loan.
While Amy Dowden will return to dance in the final alongside fellow professionals and the rest of the 2025 lineup—including Vicky Pattison, Lewis Cope, and Alex Kingston—Thomas Skinner's absence will be notable. Whether his legal threat materialises into a formal court case remains to be seen, but the allegations have cast a fresh shadow over one of the BBC's most beloved entertainment juggernauts.
