Thomas Skinner Spills On Strictly Come Dancing Payday As Socal-Style Hype Builds For Launch

Strictly Come Dancing’s Newest Star Shines Bright

Yo, LA fam, get ready to salsa because Thomas Skinner, our boy from across the pond, is stepping onto the Strictly Come Dancing floor with some serious swagger! The former Apprentice contestant is one of 15 celebs lacing up their dancing shoes for the BBC One hit, and the buzz is already hitting SoCal summer levels of hot.

With the pre-recorded launch dropping on September 20, Skinner’s got the West Coast vibe in full effect, even if he’s repping the UK. Fans are hyped, and the social media star’s odds are tightening up - going from 18/1 to 16/1 to win outright, while his chances of an early exit slipped from 8/1 to 9/1. Looks like he’s got some serious support rolling in!

Launch Teaser Drops with Major Glam Vibes

The BBC ain’t playing around, dropping a 30-second teaser that’s straight outta a Malibu mansion party. Picture this: Strictly’s pro dancers and head judge Shirley Ballas soaking up the last rays of summer by the pool, setting the stage for a full-length routine that’s gonna light up the launch show like the Hollywood sign at night.

We’re still on edge waiting to see who Thomas gets paired with, but if the teaser is any clue, this season’s gonna be pure fire. The launch will reveal all the celeb-pro matchups, and trust, we’ll be glued to our screens for every glittery second of it.

Thomas Dishes on Paycheck and BBQ with a VP

Now, let’s talk coin - Thomas ain’t shy about spilling the tea on his Strictly paycheck. In a chat with The Times, the dad-of-three called it an 'honor' to hit the dance floor, casually dropping, “I’m getting ten grand for Strictly, but seriously, I’d do it for a tenner.” Though, heads up, the BBC PR stepped in to clarify that’s not the full amount, so don’t take it as gospel.

“Man, being on Strictly is a dream - I’m just here to have a laugh and dance my heart out,” Thomas shared with a grin.

Oh, and get this - Thomas also spilled on a wild summer moment, chilling with none other than US Vice President JD Vance at a barbecue. “I’m basically a market trader, mate,” he told The Times. “But if the VP of the USA invites me over for a BBQ and sends Secret Service in an armored car, I ain’t saying no. Bosh! I’m right there!” Talk about trading market stalls for some serious political clout.

Who’s Leading the Pack?

While Thomas is bringing the energy, he’s got some stiff competition on the Strictly dance floor. Former Emmerdale star Lewis Cope, who stepped in after Kristian Nairn bowed out for medical reasons, is the current fave to win at 11/4. Trailing close behind are Love Island champ Dani Dyer at 7/2 and model-actress Ellie Goldstein at 5/1, rounding out the top three.

Meanwhile, ITV Lorraine’s LA correspondent Ross King is the oddsmakers’ pick to be the first booted at 5/2. With all this drama brewing, it’s shaping up to be a season hotter than a Santa Ana wind. So, grab your popcorn, SoCal crew - we’re in for a wild ride on that Strictly red carpet!