Zoe Delaney, a journalist hailing from Lancashire and currently working as an Assistant Showbiz Editor for the Mirror in Liverpool, is known for her passion for Gwyneth Paltrow, support for Lindsay Lohan, and unique talent of reciting Phoenix Nights scripts verbatim. Apart from her celebrity interests, Zoe is actively involved in political affairs and advocates for increased accessibility to arts careers for individuals from working-class backgrounds.
Upon coming across Tom Skinner’s promotional image for Strictly Come Dancing on Twitter, I initially thought it was a parody due to its seemingly outlandish nature. It raised questions about the show’s decision to take a risk with such a controversial choice, especially when numerous established celebrities are eager to participate.
Even before his debut on Strictly, Tom caused a stir by storming out of an interview and grabbing a reporter’s phone shortly after BBC director-general Tim Davie defended his casting. While some view Tom as a hardworking former Apprentice contestant who enjoys pie and mash, others criticize his privileged background and flirtation with right-wing ideologies while masquerading as a working-class advocate on social media.
Speculation swirls around Tom potentially entering politics with the Reform Party, although no concrete evidence supports this claim. His polarizing online presence, aligning with right-wing figures and sharing controversial views, further fuels the debate around his suitability as a Strictly contestant during a tumultuous period for the BBC.
Despite his claim of political neutrality, Tom’s actions, including associating with right-wing personalities, have drawn attention. While previously considering a stint on I’m a Celebrity, his focus now shifts to Strictly, where controversy surrounds his participation amid a diverse lineup including Ellie Goldstein and La Voix.
The decision to include Tom in the 2025 Strictly series was anticipated to spark backlash, yet the show’s producers seemingly prioritize stirring controversy over shedding the scandalous image associated with the program. This move overshadows the positive aspects of the show, such as diverse contestant representation and entertaining performances.
In a media landscape where politics and entertainment often collide, Tom’s presence on Strictly adds another layer of intrigue. Whether he will use the platform to further his political aspirations remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: his involvement has sparked debate and shifted the focus away from the show’s original intent.