Thomas Skinner has hit back at online abuse after being accused of “homophobia” by an X user who misinterpreted his social media post about meatballs. The Apprentice star, who was eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday alongside partner Amy Dowden, expressed his frustration at continued attempts to take his comments out of context.
Throughout his time on the BBC dance competition, Mr Skinner faced a barrage of criticism from online users who accused him of being “far-right”, “fascist”, and “racist” for expressing pride in Britain and criticising so-called woke culture on social media. A social meeting with US Vice President JD Vance in the summer, and photographs of him wearing Maga gear, also drew fire from critics.
When he and Ms Dowden were eliminated from Strictly on Sunday, many of his detractors celebrated the result. However, Mr Skinner remained upbeat, reflecting fondly on his experience the following morning.
Upbeat Message to Followers
Taking to X on Monday morning, Mr Skinner updated his 419,000 followers with a characteristically positive message. “Good Morning and happy Monday you lovely people!! Back in the van for me this morning, it’s another busy one,” he wrote.
“Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I’m catching up on my messages & emails this morning so will be getting back to everyone who needs a new mattress. Also want to say a massive thank you to all the lovely messages of support I’ve had. It means the world!”
The 34-year-old acknowledged his dancing abilities whilst maintaining his trademark optimism: “I know I was rubbish at dancing, but it was so much fun. But back to reality. You are ten times stronger than you can ever imagine……so don’t give up!! Keep on moving forward! Let’s go smash it today. New week, new day, new start. Don’t go home until you’re proud. Bosh.”
Meatball Post Sparks Bizarre Accusation
Before long, supporters rushed to praise Mr Skinner for his upbeat attitude. However, one X user attempted to stoke controversy by accusing him of homophobia over a post that was actually about his dinner. The post in question concerned meatballs, specifically the meat product made by Mr Brains, which Mr Skinner had expressed enjoyment of consuming.
Furious that the X user tried to take his comment out of context, Mr Skinner fired back. “What is wrong with you lot?” he fumed. “I’m talking about my dinner.”
The X user refused to back down, replying: “Yeah but it’s a slur. U can’t say that.” Even when one of Mr Skinner’s supporters weighed in to point out it was a foodstuff, the X user doubled down: “Is it though? Or is it just named that so people can just say ‘I meant the food’ so they can be homophobic on the sly…”
Mr Skinner refused to get drawn into a prolonged argument with the X user, whilst the rest of his followers took to the comments to applaud his efforts on Strictly Come Dancing.
Fans Rally Behind Skinner
Supporters flooded Mr Skinner’s social media with messages of encouragement following both his elimination and the bizarre accusation. One fan wrote: “Took balls going on Strictly and a lot of hard work. The flak you have taken from the press as a result has been absolutely disgraceful. Keep being you. Most important thing pal, is to listen back to Amy’s strong words at the end, you really helped that girl. You did good, fella.”
A second echoed: “Awww mate, well done for giving it a go. I ignore the s*** that’s thrown your way as I know you’re a good bloke. We all make mistakes, but it doesn’t define you as a person.”
A third supporter concurred: “Personally, you were robbed, Tom. But it is what it is. You are an inspiration for even doing strictly in the first place. Your family will be so proud of you. Not going to lie looking forward to your daily messages and what you’re having for breakfast. Have a good day Tom. Bosh.”
Controversial Strictly Journey
Throughout his time on Strictly Come Dancing, Mr Skinner faced persistent criticism from certain quarters due to his political views and social media presence. His expressions of British patriotism and opposition to what he termed “woke” culture made him a polarising figure amongst the show’s audience.
The controversy intensified following his meeting with US Vice President JD Vance during the summer and photographs showing him wearing merchandise associated with Donald Trump’s Make America Great Again campaign. Critics used these associations to attack Mr Skinner throughout his Strictly journey.
Despite the online hostility, Mr Skinner maintained his participation in the competition alongside professional dancer Amy Dowden. The pair were eliminated on Sunday, with many of Mr Skinner’s critics expressing satisfaction at the result on social media.
Return to Business
Following his elimination, Mr Skinner has returned to his mattress business, as evidenced by his Monday morning post. The Apprentice star’s characteristic resilience and positive attitude appear undimmed by either his Strictly exit or the continued online abuse he faces.
His refusal to be drawn into prolonged confrontations with critics, combined with his upbeat messaging to supporters, suggests Mr Skinner intends to move forward from his Strictly experience without dwelling on the negativity directed towards him.
The bizarre accusation over his meatball post highlights the extent to which some online users appear determined to find offence in even the most mundane of Mr Skinner’s social media updates. However, his substantial following of 419,000 users and the supportive comments he receives suggest many people appreciate his straightforward communication style and refusal to be cowed by criticism.
Follow for more updates on Britannia Daily.
