Former Apprentice star Thomas Skinner has pulled back the curtain on the immense physical and mental pressure of competing on Strictly Come Dancing, confessing he was physically sick before a live show due to sheer nerves and exhaustion.
Skinner, who was partnered with professional dancer Dianne Buswell in the 2019 series, opened up about the show's gruelling schedule in a candid new interview. He revealed that the relentless training, combined with the fear of performing live in front of millions, took a significant toll on his wellbeing.
'The Pressure Is Immense'
'The pressure is immense, mate,' Skinner explained. 'I remember one week, just before we were about to go on live television, I was so nervous and run down that I was physically sick. You're putting your body through it, training all hours, and your mind is going a million miles a minute.'
His confession highlights the often unseen side of the glittering BBC entertainment juggernaut, where celebrities push themselves to the absolute limit in pursuit of the Glitterball Trophy.
A Bond Forged in the Dance Studio
Despite the challenges, Skinner has nothing but praise for his professional partner, Dianne Buswell. He credits her with getting him through the toughest moments, describing their time together as an 'unforgettable experience'.
'Dianne was an absolute legend,' he said. 'She worked so hard and never let me give up, even when I thought I couldn't do it. We laughed, we cried, and we created some proper memories in that studio.'
While Skinner and Buswell were eliminated in week seven of the competition, their journey remains a fan favourite, remembered for Skinner's infectious enthusiasm and comedic timing on the dance floor.
