Graham Linehan, the comedy writer who was cancelled by the mainstream media for his views on trans issues, has shown solidarity with Strictly Come Dancing star Thomas Skinner.
Mr Skinner, 34, admitted he "wished he'd never done" the BBC competition earlier this year after facing a torrent of abuse online following his participation.
The former The Apprentice star found himself hitting headlines as soon as he was unveiled as a contestant, namely because of his social media activity.
Mr Skinner regularly promotes his patriotic views and pride in all things Britain via his social media outlets, something that's made him a target for left-leaning X users.
Graham Linehan was cancelled by the mainstream almost a decade ago | PAThe reality TV star is also an outspoken opponent to all things woke, and has veered into the world of politics after joining US Vice President JD Vance for a barbecue during his summer trip to the Cotswolds.
In recent weeks, Mr Skinner has also accused the Labour government of turning the country into a "welfare state" while urging those in power to do more to back small British businesses.
Away from social media, Mr Skinner also faced criticism from Strictly fans after news of an affair on his wife from three years ago made the papers. He apologised and took accountability soon after.
Earlier this week, the vitriol aimed his way became too much as he took to X to unleash a furious rant, insisting he has "had enough of all this b*****s".
Thomas Skinner has said he wished he never did Strictly
| BBC"I can’t do anything right now without someone criticising me or making me do something against my will," he wrote. "It’s bulls***.
"I wish I never done Strictly, I never fitted the bill for that show, let’s be honest. And it's caused me nothing but agg. Constant abuse. All I f***ing do is try to spread positivity online. I can’t walk anywhere without people knowing who I am."
Mr Skinner went on to condemn the "narrative spun against me" and claimed friends he'd known for years "are starting to turn on me".
"I’ve heard so many lies said and told about me. It’s driving me mad. I’ve had a constant pile-on of abuse over the last month, like I’m a mass murderer. It’s bulls***," he added.
LATEST STRICTLY COME DANCING DEVELOPMENTS
BBC Strictly: Thomas Skinner was sent home after the first public vote | BBCMr Skinner signed off: "I ain’t one to admit I’m struggling. But I am. I’m honestly tired of all this nonsense. Can no one see what’s happening to me, I don’t know why I’ve become this target. I’ve always been the one that’s been solid. But I’ve really really had enough now."
Hundreds of fans soon rushed to support Mr Skinner following his outburst, including controversial influencer Andrew Tate who replied: "Welcome to fame. Enjoy it. It’s hilarious."
Also among those reacting to Mr Skinner's update was Mr Linehan, who reached out: "Sorry this is happening to you.
"You're just the latest person to draw the attention of the worst generation."
BBC Strictly: Thomas Skinner had been partnered with Amy Dowden on the show | BBCIn the 48 hours since the post, Mr Skinner has returned to social media to reveal he's taking things at a much more positive step at a time.
On Friday morning, he wrote to his fanbase: "Now we have made it to the end of another busy week. And even for me this has been a long hard week. But we kept on going, we didn’t give up.
"We went out there and give it everything we got. Big respect to all of you who have kept on going even when you felt like giving up this week. That’s what proper strength looks like.
"It ain’t perfection, it’s perseverance. When ya get up today, have a look in that mirror and remind yourself you are tougher than you think. You’ve already survived 100% of your worst days. You’ve pushed through moments you thought would break ya.
Father Ted creator Graham Linehan
| PA"You are still standing. We have all earnt that cheeky pint of golden nectar at the pub later today, I can’t wait to have a couple and then get a takeaway with the family this evening!
"But first I’m gonna finish the week on a high and smash out this bit of work. Now you lovely lot, go out there, hold your head high, and make this Friday yours.
"You are all the absolute governors!! Tough times don’t last but tough people do!! Sending love to you all. Bosh," he signed off. (sic)