He’d been looking after twin daughters while wife was with son

Strictly Come Dancing hopeful Thomas Skinner has come under fire for going to the pub while his four-year-old son was in hospital for an operation.

Thomas, who appeared in The Apprentice in 2019, has proved a controversial pick as a contestant for the BBC One series before stepping on the dance floor. Fans have predicted the Essex social media personality could be voted out first due to his support for Donald Trump. And his conviction for handling stolen goods has also concerned fans.

However, Thomas’ conduct over the weekend has even led some social media users who consider themselves supporters to think again.

Thomas Skinner lasted until week 9 of The Apprentice several years ago… he will soon be on the box again as part of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 (Credit: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing contestant Thomas Skinner opens up about son

Dad-of-three Thomas, 34, shared with X users yesterday (Sunday August 31) how he was looking after his twin daughters as “brave little boy Henry” was at hospital, accompanied by his mum, facing surgery.

“I have taken my girls out for breakfast to keep my mind off worrying,” he explained. Thomas added: ‘I just wanted to say how amazing all the medical staff are in the UK. I spent all evening up the hospital with my dad who’s unwell at the moment and these guys work night and day and are fantastic.”

That 10am post was followed up after 4pm with another tweet which came with a pic of Thomas raising a pint and giving a thumbs up.

‘Sinking a pint thinking life can be hard’

His post read: “My brave little boy Henry is now back home from his operation. I’ve just spoke to my dad on the phone who is still in hospital but a lot better than he was yesterday. And West Ham have just won three-nil. I am currently sinking a pint thinking life can be hard. But it all turns around quickly.”

I am currently sinking a pint thinking life can be hard. But it all turns around quickly.

Less than an hour later, Thomas shared another update. It told fans: “The wife is cooking a bit of dinner. The twins are playing with their toys and me and Henry and having a cuddle on the sofa now. What a great turn of events on this Sunday afternoon. Love to you and your families.”

But with his previous post remaining live on X, some users questioned Thomas’ priorities.

Thomas Skinner’s Strictly signing was originally met with backlash (Credit: BBC)

‘I’d be home with my child after an op’

“Uhh, I love your story, but here we find conflict,” one respondent wrote to Thomas. They went on: “If your boy is in hospital, shouldn’t you be there and not out enjoying a pint?”

Someone else added: “I’d be home with my child after an op.. Pint can wait, totally agree. Weird Tom.”

But another person said: “He said the child is home from hospital.”

Meanwhile, other followers saluted Thomas and his beer.

“Have one for me brother,” suggested one impressed onlooker.

“All the best and enjoy a well-deserved jar,” said another.

And a third toasted Thomas: “Up the Cruzcampo as well.”