Businessman Thomas Skinner has addressed criticism from television personality Narinder Kaur regarding his inclusion in the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The 34-year-old former Apprentice contestant reached out to Ms Kaur following her public complaints about the BBC’s casting decision.
Apparently I was deemed too controversial for @bbcstrictly because they only hire quiet brown and black women that fit in a box.
But you can be a white man AND be controversial and you’ll be hired on the spot! Hello Thomas Skinner!!#BBCStrictly your unconscious bias and… pic.twitter.com/77xMVHxq6J— Narinder Kaur (@narindertweets) August 14, 2025
The entrepreneur, who will compete alongside celebrities including Stefan Dennis and Vicky Pattison when the programme returns in September, expressed his desire to inspire others whilst acknowledging past mistakes.
Ms Kaur, a former Big Brother housemate who frequently appears on programmes including Good Morning Britain, alleged the broadcaster applies different standards based on race and gender.
She claimed the BBC had previously rejected her for being “too controversial” whilst accepting male presenters with contentious views.
Taking to social media platform X, the television personality wrote: “Apparently I was deemed too controversial for @bbcstrictly because they only hire quiet brown and black women that fit in a box. But you can be a white man AND be controversial and you’ll be hired on the spot!”
Thomas Skinner featured in the 2019 series of BBC’s The Apprentice
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BBCShe expanded on her accusations in a video, stating she was “raging” with the corporation for what she perceived as selective hiring practices that favour certain demographics over others.
Ms Kaur’s grievances extended to Mr Skinner’s political connections, particularly his association with US Vice President JD Vance.
The businessman had previously hosted the American politician for a barbecue, describing the encounter as a “once in a lifetime” experience after developing a friendship through social media.
In her video statement, Ms Kaur highlighted Mr Skinner’s criminal history whilst expressing frustration at what she viewed as inconsistent standards.
She stated: “But if white man, Thomas Skinner, proud patriot, Thomas Skinner, of the online right, who has got a criminal past, they’ll take you on!”
The television presenter revealed she had approached the programme’s production team at the TV Choice Awards earlier this year, only to be informed by a booker that she was considered “a bit too controversial” for the show.
Skinner’s message concluded with wishes for Kaur’s wellbeing, stating: “Narinder, I respect that you stand up for what you believe in, not everyone’s got the guts to do that. Yes, I’ve got a past, but I’m not here to divide people.
“I’m just trying to get people to believe in themselves and realise they can do more than they think.
Thomas Skinner has been rubbing shoulders with US Vice President JD Vance
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X“Life can be so much better when you let happiness in and don’t always be angry towards others. If I’ve ever upset you, I’m sorry… that’s never been my intention. I wish ya nothing but peace, happiness, and a life you can truly enjoy. Bosh.”
Following his response, Ms Kaur modified her stance regarding one aspect of her criticism. She clarified: “I don’t mind you have a criminal past.. you know I turned up for you. But you DO divide.”
The television presenter maintained her position that she advocates for fairness across all communities, whilst accusing Mr Skinner of endorsing divisive rhetoric. She referenced their previous encounters, including her attendance at his book launch event.
Skinner’s supporters urged him to disregard the criticism, with numerous followers advising him to focus on his forthcoming appearance on the dance competition.