Strictly Come Dancing contestant Thomas Skinner has apologised after an incident at a press event where he picked up a reporter’s phone before leaving interviews early.

The former Apprentice star and social media personality was promoting the upcoming season of the BBC dance competition when he abruptly walked out. On Wednesday, Skinner explained that he had noticed messages on a journalist’s phone relating to “a personal story from my past,” which left him feeling unsettled.

“I’ve been through some difficult times in my life, which I’ve worked hard to move on from. Seeing those messages caught me off guard,” he wrote on social media. “I’m sorry I picked up someone else’s phone. I just needed a moment to step away and gather myself.”

Staying on Strictly
Despite speculation, Skinner stressed that he remains committed to the show: “What I do want to say is how excited I am to be part of Strictly this year. I can’t wait to give it my all on that dancefloor.”

A Divisive Personality
Skinner first rose to fame on The Apprentice in 2019 and has since appeared on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Celebrity Masterchef, Good Morning Britain, and other shows. Known for his upbeat motivational videos and business ventures, he has a loyal fanbase but has also attracted criticism—particularly for social media posts featuring US Vice President JD Vance and a MAGA cap.

While some accuse him of courting controversy, others praise him for his patriotism, campaigning on knife crime, and championing “traditional, hard-working, family values.”

BBC Defends Casting Decision
Earlier this week, BBC Director General Tim Davie defended Skinner’s inclusion in the Strictly line-up, telling MPs that casting decisions are made by the production team. “We wouldn’t take anyone whose views are unacceptable,” he said, noting that Skinner did not fall into that category.

Strictly Come Dancing returns later this month with Skinner and fellow celebrities preparing to take to the dancefloor.