Businessman and television personality Thomas Skinner has become the tenth famous face confirmed for this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The announcement was made this morning through the reality star’s social media channels and subsequently confirmed on Hits Radio.
The 34-year-old from Romford gained prominence as a standout contestant on The Apprentice in 2019.
Following his appearance in Lord Sugar’s boardroom, he has built a media career spanning television appearances on programmes including 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Wheel and Celebrity Masterchef.
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Away from broadcasting, Skinner operates several enterprises including a mattress company and a gymnasium.
His motivational social media content, frequently featuring unusual breakfast combinations, has attracted substantial online followings.
He also co-hosts TalkSport Radio’s mental health podcast The Men’s Room alongside Neil Ruddock.
The Essex entrepreneur has recently 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.
Speaking about his participation in the BBC dance competition, Skinner expressed enthusiasm despite having no formal dance training.
“I’m beyond excited to be joining Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve tackled the boardroom and some big breakfasts in my time but stepping onto the dance floor under that glitter ball is next level stuff!” he stated.
The self-described “grafter” acknowledged his inexperience, admitting he has “never danced in my life (other than at weddings)”. However, he pledged to approach the challenge with determination and humour.
“I’m ready to graft and of course have a laugh. Bring on the sequins, sambas and most importantly, the BOSH to the ballroom!” he declared, incorporating his trademark catchphrase into his announcement.
Here is a pic of Me and Vice President @JDVance towards the end of the night after a few beersš» Iām overdressed in my suit, but when the VP invites you to a BBQ, you donāt risk turning up in shorts an flip-flopsš Cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, hisā¦ https://t.co/HQGtaIY6fD pic.twitter.com/QOkL813qoR
ā Thomas Skinner ā (@iamtomskinner) August 12, 2025
Skinner joins a diverse lineup of celebrities already confirmed for the autumn series.
Model and actress Ellie Goldstein, who made history as the first person with Down syndrome to appear on British Vogue’s cover, was revealed as the seventh contestant on Wednesday’s Scott Mills Breakfast Show.
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The 23-year-old has featured in campaigns for major brands including Gucci, Adidas and Victoria’s Secret. She expressed delight at joining the programme she has “loved watching for so long”.
Also announced were drag performer La Voix and former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, bringing the total to nine celebrities before Skinner’s confirmation. The BBC has indicated that additional contestants will be revealed soon, with the programme scheduled to return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September.