Strictly Viewers Slam Judges’ ‘Diabolical’ Scoring After Thomas Skinner’s Paso Doble
Strictly Come Dancing: Thomas Skinner’s Paso Doble Sparks Controversy
Strictly Come Dancing has once again ignited passionate reactions from its dedicated fanbase, this time following Thomas Skinner’s recent Paso Doble performance. The 34-year-old reality TV star, known for his candidness and recent personal revelations, took to the ballroom with professional dancer Amy Dowden in a routine that many viewers found electrifying. However, the judges’ scoring left a sour taste for many, who described the marks as “diabolical” and questioned the fairness of the evaluation.
Thomas Skinner’s journey on Strictly has been closely followed, not only because of his dance skills but also due to his off-screen controversies. Despite this, his Paso Doble was met with mixed reviews from the judges, with scores ranging from a low two to a modest five. This disparity in judging has fueled a wave of criticism across social media platforms, with fans rallying behind Thomas and calling for more consistent and transparent scoring.
Judges’ Reactions and Scores: A Mixed Bag
The Paso Doble is known for its dramatic flair and intense energy, and Thomas Skinner certainly brought enthusiasm to the dance floor. He began the routine with a striking entrance, carrying Amy Dowden onto the floor, setting the stage for a passionate performance. Yet, the judges’ comments reflected a divided opinion.
Anton Du Beke expressed a desire for more intensity next week, stating, “I need a bit more next week.” Craig Revel Horwood was particularly critical, describing the performance as “very square, flat and stumpy,” likening Thomas more to a “tin soldier” than a matador, which is central to the Paso Doble’s character. Motsi Mabuse suggested the need for better shaping, while Shirley Ballas offered some praise, saying she was “quite impressed” and congratulated Thomas on his effort.
The scores reflected this split: Craig gave a 2, Motsi a 4, Shirley a 5, and Anton a 5, culminating in a total of 16 points. This scoring sparked outrage among viewers, many of whom felt Thomas deserved higher marks, especially when compared to other contestants.
Social Media Backlash: Fans Voice Their Discontent
The reaction from Strictly fans was swift and vocal. Social media platforms, especially Twitter (now X), became a battleground for opinions on the judging. Many viewers accused the judges of being inconsistent and unfair, particularly when comparing Thomas’s score to that of other dancers like Balvinder Sopal, who received lower scores despite delivering polished performances.
Comments ranged from disbelief to outright frustration. One user wrote, “Thomas Skinner only being 1 point behind Balvinder is actually diabolical #Strictly.” Another fan pointed out the apparent favoritism, saying, “Strictly, you have Balvinder who’s amazing, then you get Thomas who’s not, but gets 5s whatever judges!!!” Others questioned Shirley Ballas’s scoring decisions, highlighting the disparity between Thomas’s and Balvinder’s marks.
This uproar underscores a broader conversation about judging standards on Strictly Come Dancing, with fans demanding more transparency and consistency to maintain the show’s credibility.
Thomas Skinner’s Commitment and the Road Ahead
Despite the criticism and personal challenges, Thomas Skinner remains determined to prove himself on the dance floor. Prior to the show, he expressed excitement about his Strictly journey, saying, “I’m absolutely buzzing about Strictly. I’ve been working so hard with Amy and enjoying dancing more than I thought.” His enthusiasm and dedication have been evident in rehearsals and live performances alike.
Thomas has openly acknowledged his past mistakes, including a widely publicized affair, but insists that his marriage is stronger than ever. His focus is now on family values and making the most of this opportunity. Partner Amy Dowden, who has faced her own battles, including overcoming breast cancer, has been a steadfast supporter, vowing to help Thomas succeed despite the controversies surrounding him.
Looking ahead, Thomas is motivated to improve and impress both the judges and the audience. He declared, “I am not letting Amy down, I am gonna work so hard and can’t wait for you all to see my live dance this Saturday night.” His resilience and commitment could well turn the tide in his favor as the competition progresses.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025: What to Expect Next
The 2025 lineup for Strictly Come Dancing promises an exciting mix of celebrities from various backgrounds, including TV stars, athletes, and influencers. Alongside Thomas Skinner, notable participants include Nitro from Gladiators, Doctor Who’s Alex Kingston, former rugby captain Chris Robshaw, and EastEnders actress Suki Panesar.
The competition is heating up, with high expectations for performances and judging fairness. Fans will be watching closely to see how the judges handle scoring and whether controversies like those surrounding Thomas’s Paso Doble will influence future evaluations.
Conclusion
Thomas Skinner’s Paso Doble on Strictly Come Dancing has sparked a heated debate about the fairness and consistency of the judges’ scoring. While some praised his effort and enthusiasm, many viewers slammed the marks as “diabolical,” igniting widespread discussion on social media. As Thomas continues to work hard alongside Amy Dowden, fans eagerly await his next performance, hoping to see growth and perhaps a more favorable reception from the judges.
If you’re passionate about Strictly Come Dancing and want to stay updated on all the latest performances, controversies, and behind-the-scenes news, be sure to follow our coverage and join the conversation. Don’t miss out on the drama and excitement of Strictly 2025—tune in and cheer on your favorites!








