Former The Apprentice sensation Thomas Skinner has broken his silence following his heartbreaking elimination from Strictly Come Dancing during Sunday's results show.
In an exclusive emotional interview, the 32-year-old entrepreneur confessed he was "absolutely gutted" to be the first celebrity voted off the 2023 series after finding himself in the dreaded dance-off against actor Nigel Harman.
The Moment of Truth
Skinner revealed the crushing moment he realised his Strictly journey had come to an abrupt end: "As soon as they said we were doing the Jive, I knew we were in trouble. I gave it everything but I'm not a dancer - I'm a second-hand furniture salesman!"
The fan favourite, known for his infectious enthusiasm and larger-than-life personality, had performed a Cha Cha Cha to Sir Mix-a-Lot's 'Baby Got Back' with professional partner Dianne Buswell on Saturday's live show.
Judges' Tough Decision
When both couples had repeated their performances in the dance-off, the judges unanimously chose to save Nigel Harman and his partner Katya Jones.
Head Judge Shirley Ballas explained: "Based on the dance-off alone and the improvement we saw, we've decided to save Nigel and Katya."
An Emotional Farewell
Despite his disappointment, Skinner remained characteristically positive: "I've had the time of my life. To be on this show has been an absolute honour. Dianne has been incredible - she's the best teacher in the world."
His professional partner Dianne Buswell fought back tears as she paid tribute: "You are the most hardworking, positive person I've ever met. You came here with no experience and you've been an absolute joy to teach."
Skinner's departure marks the first exit of the 2023 series, leaving 14 couples remaining in the competition as the battle for the Glitterball Trophy continues.
