Thomas Skinner was the first celebrity to be eliminated

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Thomas Skinner was the first celebrity to be eliminated(Image: BBC)

Thomas Skinner regrets taking part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing because he “never fitted the bill”. The reality TV star was partnered with Welsh professional dancer Amy Dowden and they became the first couple to be eliminated from the BBC One dancing show.

Thomas was voted into the first dance off of the series against former England rugby star Chris Robshaw and his partner Nadiya Bychkova. Tom and Amy performed their salsa to Bonkers by Dizzee Rascal, while Chris and Nadiya took to the ballroom floor to showcase their Viennese waltz to Die With A Smile by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.

The judges all agreed in their vote to save Chris and Nadiya, which meant Tom and Amy had to say their goodbyes. Speaking about his time on the show with presenter Tess Daly, Skinner said: “I’ve loved it.

“I’ve never danced before and listen my stay was short, but Amy’s amazing. It’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it. I can’t really dance that well but I’ve had fun, I’ve had fun. He continued: “Thank you, Amy – sorry that we haven’t done too good, because you’re a different class.”

Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden, with host Tess Daly, after Skinner became the first celebrity to be voted of this year's Strictly Come Dancing

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Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden, with host Tess Daly, after Skinner became the first celebrity to be voted of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing(Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)

In the weeks after his exit, the former Apprentice contestant has since said his appearance on the series has caused him aggravation. In a post to X, Skinner said: “I can’t do anything right now without someone criticising me or making me do something against my will. It’s bullshit.

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“I wish I (had) never done Strictly, I never fitted the bill for that show let’s be honest. And it’s caused me nothing but agg (aggravation). Constant abuse. All I f****** do is try to spread positivity online. I can’t walk anywhere without people knowing who I am.

“I’ve had a narrative spun against me so people always have an opinion on me now that they didn’t 3 months ago. I’ve heard so many lies said and told about me. It’s driving me mad.”

Shortly after their elimination, Amy shared a heartfelt statement addressing her early exit from the show. In a post on Instagram, the Welsh professional dancer said: “Our Strictly journey has sadly come to end.

“Tom, you have truly helped bring me back, not just to the show, but to myself. Our training days have been filled with laughter and just enjoying the moment.

“Your work ethic, your heart, and your commitment the last few weeks has been 110%. You’ve embraced every challenge with such positivity, and I couldn’t have asked for more from you. “I would have absolutely loved to take you even further, just to share even more of the joy of dancing and the Strictly magic with you. But I’m leaving with a heart full of gratitude and pride. Thank you.

“What I’ve learnt more than ever this past two years what matters, happiness, health and to be grateful to be alive doing what I love. I wish all the contestants the very best of luck this season is going to be spectacular.

“I’ll be watching and cheering you all on. Lastly thanks for all the love, certainly felt it! Welsh love always xxx @bbcstrictly @iamtomskinner.”