Thomas Skinner Breaks His Silence After Being the First to Leave Strictly Come Dancing 2025
It’s always tough to be the first to go, and Thomas Skinner has finally spoken out after his surprising early exit from this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. The businessman and social media influencer was the very first celebrity to be eliminated from the 2025 series, following a tense dance-off against Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova during the season’s opening Results Show. Despite giving it their all with a fiery Salsa routine, Thomas and his professional partner Amy Dowden couldn’t quite convince the judges, who unanimously chose to save Chris and Nadiya with their elegant Viennese Waltz.
But here’s where it gets controversial: all four judges agreed to save Chris and Nadiya, leaving Thomas and Amy out in the cold. Was it really about the dancing, or did other factors play a role? This unanimous decision sparked plenty of debate among fans and critics alike.
After the announcement, Thomas took to social media to express his heartfelt feelings about the experience and his dance partner. He described Amy as "one of the most amazing people I've ever met," praising her both on and off the dance floor. "I loved every single second dancing with her," he wrote, adding that Amy didn’t deserve to be the first to leave. "I’m absolutely gutted for her that our journey ended so soon because I know how much dancing means to her. Keep shining, Amy. You truly deserve the world. Bosh!"
The next morning, Thomas shared a glimpse into his busy life post-Strictly, thanking fans for their overwhelming support. "Back in the van this morning, another busy day ahead," he said. "I’m catching up on messages and emails, especially for those needing a new mattress! A massive thank you to everyone who sent kind words—it means the world to me."
He continued with an inspiring message for his followers: "I know I wasn’t the best dancer, but I had so much fun. Now, it’s back to reality. Remember, you’re stronger than you think, so don’t give up! Keep pushing forward. Let’s smash today. New week, new day, new start. Don’t go home until you’re proud. Bosh!"
During the Sunday results show, judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood all voted to save Chris and Nadiya, with Motsi Mabuse holding the deciding vote and agreeing with the majority. This unanimous decision sealed Thomas and Amy’s fate, making them the first couple to exit the competition this season.
When asked by host Tess Daly about his Strictly experience, Thomas was candid and positive. "I loved it," he said. "I’d never danced before, and though my time was short, Amy is incredible. It’s been a lot of fun, even if I’m not the best dancer! Thank you, Amy—sorry we didn’t do better because you’re in a different league."
Amy Dowden also shared her thoughts, revealing she had "made a new friend for life" in Thomas, whom she called "adorable." She expressed some disappointment that Thomas didn’t get to showcase his ballroom skills, saying, "There’s a Ballroom boy in there somewhere!" Amy opened up about her own struggles over the past three years, admitting she had lost confidence as a dancer. But Thomas’s infectious smile and laughter helped bring her back to her happy place. "Walking into the room with you was a breath of fresh air," she said. "Thank you for that."
This early exit and the judges’ unanimous decision raise interesting questions: Should the first elimination be based purely on dance ability, or do other factors like personality and audience connection play a role? And how much weight should judges give to potential growth over the course of the competition?
What do you think? Was Thomas’s departure fair, or did Amy and Thomas deserve more time to prove themselves? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below—because in the world of Strictly, opinions are never in short supply!
