Lorraine Kelly has publicly mocked former Apprentice contestant Thomas Skinner, questioning his decision to pursue legal action against the BBC.
The ITV daytime host, took aim at the reality TV star during Thursday’s episode of her programme, describing his reported lawsuit as baffling.
Speaking on air, the 66-year-old appeared incredulous as she discussed Skinner’s claims, remarking: “He’s suing the BBC. It seems to be a trend these days, everybody is doing it.”
Ms Kelly went on to quiz entertainment journalist Lucie Cave about Skinner’s motivations, adding: “What do you think he wants out of this? I don’t really get it.”
ITV Lorraine: Lorraine Kelly questioned Mr Skinner’s decision to sue the BBC
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ITVThe presenter concluded her remarks with a pointed comparison, rolling her eyes as she declared: “He’s up there with Donald Trump, who is also suing the BBC.”
Her comments came after reports emerged that Mr Skinner, 34, is preparing legal action against the broadcaster over his early exit from Strictly Come Dancing.
The businessman alleges the show’s public voting system was deliberately manipulated to ensure his swift elimination from the competition.
Mr Skinner, who rose to fame on The Apprentice with his catchphrase “Bosh”, claims he has obtained proof that his public vote tally was suppressed.
Thomas Skinner was the first to be eliminated from BBC Strictly | BBCA source told The Sun: “Thomas is adamant he got a larger share of the public vote and believes he has the evidence to prove it. He is determined to see it through, but there’s no way the BBC will take this sensational claim lying down.”
Mr Skinner reportedly believes negative press coverage surrounding his personal life influenced the alleged interference.
His Strictly stint was controversial from the outset, with some viewers objecting to his casting due to his association with US Vice President JD Vance.
The pair were pictured together at a barbecue after Vance reached out to Skinner to praise his motivational social media content.
Thomas Skinner regularly posts updates of his family on social media | INSTAGRAMMr Skinner later revealed he received death threats following the meeting in October, just weeks before the series began.
Further controversy followed when he stormed out of Strictly’s press launch at Elstree Studios, seizing a journalist’s phone after spotting a question about his private life.
Days later, the businessman admitted to being unfaithful to his wife Sinead shortly after their wedding.
The couple share three children.
Mr Skinner and professional partner Amy Dowden were the first pair eliminated from the 2025 series after landing in the bottom two dance-off.
They had amassed just 29 judges’ points across the opening fortnight, one fewer than rivals Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova.
The BBC does not release individual public vote figures, but Mr Skinner remains convinced his support was deliberately understated.
Sources claim he has since clashed with BBC executives and plans to boycott the Strictly final.
Thomas Skinner with professional dancer partner, Amy Dowden
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BBCAn insider said: “He’s convinced the BBC was hell-bent on getting him out as soon as possible — no matter how many of his fans got behind him.”
Reports suggest his absence is officially due to a prior commitment, while Ms Dowden will return for the finale.
The BBC has strongly denied the allegations, with a spokesperson telling the Mirror: “Strictly Come Dancing’s public vote is robust and independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy.”
Corporation sources also confirmed no formal legal complaint has been received.
The broadcaster’s response mirrors its stance on a separate lawsuit brought by Donald Trump over a Panorama episode featuring his speech ahead of the 6 January 2021 US Capitol riot.
BBC insiders have indicated the corporation would mount a robust defense should any formal proceedings be launched.
