The Apprentice alumnus Thomas Skinner has shared a speech urging Brits to be “proud” of the flag through a late-night social media post on Wednesday evening.
The 34-year-old Strictly Come Dancing participant shared footage from their previous Good Morning Britain appearance whilst training for the BBC programme, reigniting his feud with television personality Narinder Kaur.
During his X platform message, Mr Skinner declared his affection for Britain and its citizens, stating: “I love this beautiful country and all you lovely people with all my heart.”
He then appeared to target Kaur and those opposing the recent upsurge in flag displays directly, adding: “I’m fed up with all these lunatics moaning about being proud of where your from and trying to cause a massive division between people.”
I love this beautiful country and all you lovely people with all my heart. I’m fed up with all these lunatics moaning about being proud of where your from and trying to cause a massive division between people…. It ain’t what we are about. We should be proud, united, and always… pic.twitter.com/1soUpI8QAF
— Thomas Skinner ⚒ (@iamtomskinner) October 1, 2025
The reality television star concluded his post by encouraging national pride, adding: “We should be proud, united, and always fly our flag with pride.”
Mr Skinner’s participation in the dance competition has sparked debate since the announcement, with his political stance and vocal opinions drawing criticism.
The businessman faced additional scrutiny during the programme’s press event when he seized a reporter’s phone before leaving abruptly.
His partnership with professional dancer Amy Dowden also generated backlash amongst viewers.
BBC Strictly: Thomas Skinner has been partnered with Amy Dowden on the show
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BBCDespite the controversy, Mr Skinner has maintained his position on the show and shared on Wednesday that he had already shed a stone through rehearsals.
Among those opposing his participation in Strictly was former Big Brother contestant Narinder Kaur, who publicly questioned his casting.
She claimed the BBC rejected her for being “too controversial” whilst accepting Mr Skinner despite his views and criminal history.
The television personalities had previously debated national identity on ITV’s morning programme, discussing whether individuals feel embarrassment about their English heritage.
In August, Ms Kaur had voiced her frustration about the casting decision, stating: “Apparently I was deemed too controversial for @bbcstrictly because they only hire quiet brown and black women that fit in a box.”
She continued: “But you can be a white man AND be controversial and you’ll be hired on the spot!”
The former Big Brother participant expressed anger towards the broadcaster, claiming they had declined her participation after being approached.
She alleged the BBC preferred “quiet” minority women who matched their audience’s expectations, whilst rejecting outspoken women of colour with strong viewpoints.
Ms Kaur had accused the corporation of displaying “unconscious bias and prejudicial views against British brown women,” which she described as “disgraceful.”
She argued that Mr Skinner’s acceptance demonstrated double standards, particularly given what she termed his “online right” affiliations and previous convictions.
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Thomas Skinner shared a GMB debate clip from two years ago featuring himself and Narinder Kaur
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ITV
Following her initial criticism in August, Mr Skinner had attempted to defuse tensions with a conciliatory message.
He acknowledged her courage in defending her beliefs and apologised for any offence caused, writing: “If I’ve ever upset you, I’m sorry that’s never been my intention.”
The businessman had encouraged her to embrace positivity, suggesting life improves when one “let happiness in and don’t always be angry towards others.”
He concluded his earlier response by wishing her “nothing but peace, happiness, and a life you can truly enjoy.”