Full Breakdown
Thomas Skinner Eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing 2025
10/7/2025, 1:28:48 PM
First Elimination of the Season
Thomas Skinner, a former contestant from *The Apprentice*, became the first celebrity eliminated from the 2025 series of *Strictly Come Dancing* on October 5. After two weeks of performances, Skinner and his professional partner Amy Dowden found themselves in the bottom two alongside former England rugby player Chris Robshaw and his partner Nadiya Bychkova. The elimination followed a dance-off where both couples reprised their routines from the previous night. Skinner and Dowden performed a salsa to "Bonkers" by Dizzee Rascal, while Robshaw and Bychkova danced a Viennese waltz to "Die With a Smile" by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.
Judges' Decision
The judges—Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood—unanimously voted to save Robshaw and Bychkova, which meant that Motsi Mabuse did not need to use her casting vote but stated she would have chosen to save the same couple. Skinner ended the night with a combined score of 29 points, having scored just 13 for his salsa performance. Revel Horwood criticized Skinner's dance, stating, “It looked like you were competing at a weightlifting competition in Skegness, darling, it was all just powerlifts.”
Emotional Farewell
Following their elimination, both Skinner and Dowden expressed gratitude for their time on the show. Skinner remarked, “I’ve loved it. I’ve never danced before and my stay was short, but Amy’s amazing. It’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it.” Dowden, who has faced personal challenges including cancer treatment, praised Skinner, saying, “I’ve got to know the real Tom and he is adorable. We’ve laughed so much... what I’ve learnt in the last few years is happiness, health, and being alive is more important than anything.”
Background on Amy Dowden
Dowden's journey on *Strictly* has been particularly poignant, as she was unable to compete in the previous two seasons due to her health issues. She expressed her disappointment that they did not get to showcase ballroom dancing, stating, “There is a ballroom boy in there, so I’m a bit gutted he didn’t get to do the ballroom.” Dowden emphasized the importance of their friendship, saying, “I’ve made a new friend for life and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Public and Fan Reactions
Following the announcement of Skinner's elimination, reactions from fans and fellow contestants were largely supportive. Skinner took to social media to express his appreciation for Dowden, calling her “one of the most amazing persons I've ever met.” He acknowledged the fun he had during his short stint on the show, stating, “I know I was rubbish at dancing, but it was so much fun.”
What's Next for the Contestants
The remaining 14 couples will return to the dance floor for a Movie Week special on October 11, where they will perform routines inspired by various films. The competition continues to heat up as contestants strive for the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
