Former contestant on The Apprentice, Thomas Skinner, faced backlash this week for seizing a reporter’s phone and abruptly ending interviews in anticipation of the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing. The future of the pillow salesman on the show seemed uncertain, but the BBC has since confirmed that he will remain part of the cast. The incident left organizers displeased, prompting the corporation to reiterate its zero-tolerance policy for behavior that does not meet its standards.
Known for his outspoken presence on social media, Skinner grabbed a reporter’s phone during an interview, instructing them to stop recording, which led his co-contestant, former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, to continue the press engagements alone. In a recorded exchange, Skinner questioned the recording of the interview, while the reporter insisted on recording it. The situation escalated as Skinner insisted the focus was on him, and moments later, he abruptly left the scene.
Regarding the unusual incident, an insider revealed, “He walked in, sat down, took a reporter’s phone without warning, and the reporter asked him to stop. It was unexpected, his reaction was sudden.” Another source added, “It was completely unexpected. He was in good spirits during the first interview, happy and surprised to be there, like a contest winner.”
The incident has sparked debate on whether the BBC should remove Thomas Skinner from Strictly Come Dancing. Readers are encouraged to share their opinions through a poll and comment section.