THOMAS Skinner has revealed his regret at ever doing Strictly Come Dancing after being bombarded with vile abuse.
The Apprentice star, 34, faced a backlash when it was announced he’d signed for the show, and he was the first contestant to be eliminated.
A selfie with US Vice President JD Vance taken earlier in the year prompted some to label him right-wing and he received more than 200 death threats.
Then, as the series was due to begin, Thomas spoke about an extramarital affair he had three years ago after going through a hard time.
That combination of events, as well as his limited dance ability, proved too much to overcome.
However, the abuse has continued after his exit and it is now taking its toll.
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Writing on X tonight, Thomas posted: “I’ve had enough of all this b******s. I can’t do anything right now without someone criticising me. Or Making me do something against my will. It’s bulls**t. I wish I never done strictly, I never fitted the bill for that show let’s be honest.
“It’s caused me nothing but agg. Constant abuse. All I f**kin 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 three months ago.
“I’ve heard so many lies said and told about me. It’s driving me mad. I’ve had a constant pile on of abuse over the last month like I’m a mass murderer. It’s bulls**t.”
Thomas said people who have supported him his whole life are now turning on him and enough was enough.
He continued: “I don’t know why I’ve become this target. I’ve always been the one who’s been solid. But I’ve really really had enough now. Bosh.”
Through all of the scrutiny, Thomas has done his best to remain positive.
By speaking publicly and openly about his issues, Thomas has helped other men going through a hard time.
One alcoholic who had relapsed after being sober for more than six years told Thomas he intended to take his own life moments before watching one of the star’s videos talking about “consistency, graft and joy when talking about the future“.
Another, who wished to remain anonymous because his wife and kids were unaware of his personal struggle, said: “I was in a really dark place. Your words gave me strength when I had nothing left”.
Despite his early exit from the BBC show, Thomas quickly returned to social media to spread his message to “keep going, no matter what”.
He wrote on X: “It doesn’t matter if you’re tired, skint, or if life keeps knocking ya down. What matters is that you keep going. The people who win in life ain’t the lucky ones… they’re the ones who refuse to quit.
“People are gonna doubt ya. Some will laugh at ya. Others will do everything they can to hold you back. You rise above it. You stay focused. You keep pushing for the ones who love you, believe in you, and want to see you win.
“Every bit of struggle you face today is shaping the person you’re meant to become. So stand tall, hold ya head high, and go again.”
