Tom Skinner’s upcoming participation in Strictly Come Dancing has sparked a social media backlash from fans of the BBC show who oppose the former The Apprentice star’s political views.
Businessman and television personality Skinner was announced on Thursday as one of the famous faces taking to the iconic dancefloor next month.
The Essex-born 34-year-old has rcently attracted attention for his unexpected connection with JD Vance, the United States Vice President.
During Vance’s current UK holiday, Skinner was invited to join him for a barbecue gathering in the English countryside.
Posting on social media platform X, Skinner described the evening as “unreal” and praised Vance as “a proper gent”.
The businessman appeared formally dressed in a suit for the casual outdoor event, explaining he didn’t want to risk appearing underdressed when meeting the Vice President.
Their friendship emerged after Vance publicly supported Skinner on X following criticism the reality star received for comments about Britain.
The Vice President responded to Skinner’s posts about receiving hostile messages, encouraging him to persevere through the backlash.
However, the relationship has left some Strictly fans disgruntled, while others jumped to Skinner’s defence.
“Oh wow they actually have signed up Tom Skinner. What a way to ruin a f***ing brilliant lineup #Strictly,” one X user shared.
Another complained: “Assume BBC are trying to just get #Strictly removed from airing at this rate , they obvs learnt nothing over the years of the bookings they do … seriously skinner , what a numpty.”
“Disappointing. Yesterday we had 2 incredibly progressive announcements, and today we get a man who supports and socialises with politicians and figures who would want to remove rights from those contestants. Not cool at all,” another wrote.
Some one else added: “AWFUL choice. Clearly learned nothing from controversy.
“This is not the kind of person to platform. Especially on two bbc shows at the same time with his upcoming appearance on celebrity apprentice. This sends a terrible message and I am hugely disappointed after what was a fantastic line up.”
“He supports JD Vance and what he stands for. You’ve really missed the mark here @bbcstrictly,” penned another.
However, plenty of fans also expressed their admiration for Skinner, with one commenting: “The reaction to Tom Skinner being on #Strictly is OTT.”
“What does his view in American politics have to do with him dancing on Strictly?” asked another.
Someone else confessed: “He’s the reason I’d watch now.”
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“Get a life.. it’s a bit of fun for gods sake,” another responded. (sic)