Shirley Ballas Addresses Thomas Skinner Scandal on Good Morning Britain

The head judge of Strictly Come Dancing, Shirley Ballas, has expressed her stance on the ongoing controversies surrounding the show, particularly those involving contestant Thomas Skinner. Skinner, known for his appearance on The Apprentice, has faced a series of scandals as the competition progresses towards its climax in 2025.

During a recent interview on Good Morning Britain, Ballas was asked about her thoughts on the tumultuous environment following Skinner’s match with professional dancer Amy Dowden. This week, the pair shared insights into their training on social media, but the atmosphere was marred by Skinner’s abrupt exit from press interviews earlier this month. Reports indicate that he seized a journalist’s phone, a reaction that followed revelations of infidelity towards his wife, Sinead Skinner, shortly after their wedding in 2022.

When questioned by ITV presenter Susanna Reid about feeling a sense of responsibility due to recent scandals, Ballas was firm. “It doesn’t touch the sides. It’s baubles, bangles and beads for me. I stay in my lane,” she stated. She emphasized her role as a judge, focusing on the performance aspects of the show, such as coordination and personality, rather than the surrounding drama.

Co-host Richard Arnold added that the unpredictable nature of the show makes it difficult to foresee controversies. He noted, “You can never see these things coming. I was watching on Saturday and I couldn’t see any potential for anything that we’ve seen over the last two or three years on Strictly.”

Ballas continued to highlight the dedication of the professional dancers involved, expressing confidence that the final stages of the competition would showcase exceptional performances. “We do have the best professionals in the world and they are all doing their very, very best when they’re working throughout the week. I’m sure that the final four or three is going to be off the chart,” she remarked.

Earlier this week, Skinner took to social media to respond to criticism following his appearance on the show. In a lengthy post on X, he declared that he “won’t be cancelled,” warning those who oppose him that they should not “start a war they won’t win.” He expressed frustration over the backlash he has received recently, stating, “I’ve been kicked down and called every name under the sun recently and probably some of it I deserve.”

Skinner’s comments reflect a broader discussion about the pressures faced by public figures, particularly in light of the scrutiny that comes with reality television appearances. He remarked on the irony of detractors who preach kindness while attacking him online. “You couldn’t make it up,” he added, reinforcing his determination to remain in the spotlight.

As Strictly Come Dancing continues its season, viewers can catch the next episode on BBC One this Saturday at 18:55. The show’s ongoing controversies and the dynamic performances promise to keep audiences engaged as the competition heats up.