Strictly Come Dancing contestant Thomas Skinner has recently become the focus of heightened security measures after receiving multiple death threats.

The Essex entrepreneur and former The Apprentice participant has been under the watchful eye of Daniel Gilbert, a former Royal Marine and ex-bodyguard to Spider-Man star Tom Holland.

This move underscores the increasing concerns around the safety of public figures involved in high-profile television shows and the proactive steps taken to protect them.

Thomas Skinner’s Security Boost: Protection by Tom Holland’s Former Bodyguard

Thomas Skinner’s journey on Strictly Come Dancing has attracted significant public attention, not all of it positive. Following a series of death threats linked to his social media presence and political associations, the show’s producers have taken the decision to enhance his personal security. Daniel Gilbert, known for his elite protection work, including guarding Tom Holland at various events, has been assigned to accompany Thomas during filming.

Daniel Gilbert’s impressive background includes service as a Royal Marine and extensive experience in celebrity protection. He has safeguarded high-profile individuals not only in the entertainment industry but also in politically sensitive environments. His presence alongside Thomas at Kempton Park Racecourse, where the duo filmed scenes with dance partner Amy Dowden, highlights the seriousness with which Strictly Come Dancing is treating contestant safety.

A source close to the production revealed, “Daniel is one of the best in the industry. He’s trained to the highest standards, and nothing escapes his attention. Thomas is in very safe hands.” This reassurance comes amid growing concerns for Thomas, who has openly discussed the impact of the threats on his wellbeing.

The Context Behind the Threats and Security Concerns

The threats against Thomas Skinner reportedly escalated after he posted a photo with US Vice President JD Vance, who invited him to a barbecue during a recent UK visit. This association sparked polarized reactions on social media, with Thomas caught in the crossfire of political tensions. He explained, “I’ve had loads of death threats. People say I am this political figure that I’m actually not. The Left seems to be attacking me every day on social media. The Right seem to see me as a figurehead. It’s been a bit much for me.”

In response to these developments, the BBC has reportedly upgraded the security arrangements for all Strictly Come Dancing contestants this season. The production company replaced Olympus Security, which previously handled security at Elstree Studios, with SRM Security—a firm specializing in film and TV industry protection. This change ensures that close protection officers accompany contestants during on-location shoots, providing an added layer of safety.

Security concerns are not new to Strictly Come Dancing. In 2020, dancer Dianne Buswell also faced death threats, and in 2019, ex-servicemen were brought in to protect judge Motsi Mabuse following racist abuse. Head judge Shirley Ballas has similarly been targeted on multiple occasions. These incidents have prompted the show’s producers to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of their talent.

A BBC spokesperson commented, “While we wouldn’t comment on specific security matters, there have been no changes to existing protocols based on a specific cast member.” Nonetheless, the visible presence of high-level security personnel signals a commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all involved.

What This Means for Thomas Skinner and Strictly Come Dancing

The increased security around Thomas Skinner reflects broader challenges faced by public figures navigating the intersection of entertainment and social media scrutiny. For Thomas, the protection provided by Daniel Gilbert offers peace of mind, allowing him to focus on his performances without fear for his personal safety.

For Strictly Come Dancing, these measures demonstrate a proactive approach to managing risks associated with fame and public exposure. By investing in specialized security services, the show ensures that contestants and dancers can concentrate on their craft in a secure setting.

Fans of the show can continue to support Thomas Skinner as he progresses in the competition, knowing that his safety is being taken seriously by the production team.

Conclusion

The protection of Strictly Come Dancing star Thomas Skinner by Tom Holland’s former bodyguard highlights the growing importance of security for public figures facing online threats. With Daniel Gilbert’s expertise and the BBC’s upgraded safety protocols, Thomas can pursue his passion for dance with confidence.

If you want to stay updated on the latest Strictly Come Dancing news and celebrity security developments, be sure to follow trusted entertainment news sources and support your favorite contestants. Stay safe and enjoy the show!