Thomas Skinner admits 'I can see Strictly being CANNED' as he slams 'awful' pro dancer cull: 'Not what it was'

However, finding replacements to step into their shoes hasn't been the only task at hand for bosses ahead of the 2026 series.

The line-up of pro dancers is currently in the midst of arguably one of its biggest ever shake-ups.

In recent weeks, the likes of Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Karen Hauer have all been axed from the cast of professionals.

And it's been reported that the cull of pro dancers isn't done yet, with Gorka Marquez another name who's been tipped to lose his spot.

With so much change happening behind the scenes of the show, along with dwindling ratings series-on-series, Mr Skinner feels bosses may call time on the dance competition altogether.

Speaking of the overhaul, Mr Skinner admitted: "I don’t watch it now. It’s sad that they’re getting rid of some of the dancers."

Speaking against the decision further, Mr Skinner went on: "They work so hard, they are so much more important than the celebrities. It is awful for them.

"I can see the show being canned. It isn’t what it was."

Mr Skinner's time on Strictly was far from harmonious, with the former Apprentice star being the first booted off following a tirade of backlash from social media trolls.

The 35-year-old was regularly targeted by left-leaning X users for his previous political social media posts as well as a barbecue with US Vice President JD Vance last summer.

Mr Skinner has previously stated on social media that he "wished he'd never" taken part in the show, and in his new interview with The Sun, he doubled down.

"I should never have done Strictly. I will always regret it. But no bad blood, I’ve moved on," he said.

Mr Skinner even went as far as to seek legal advice about the vote being allegedly rigged to oust him first. However, he decided not to pursue the claims.

The next series of Strictly is set to go ahead as usual in the autumn, but it will be without the aforementioned pro dancers.

In a video shared to her Instagram account, Ms Hauer informed her followers of the decision. "Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher but as a human being," she said.

"I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends and people I admire so much."

Later in her statement, she added: "I’ll even miss standing in front of the judges, can you believe that? Smiling politely while sometimes secretly disagreeing – it’s been an honour to share the ballroom with them.

"Who would’ve thought that a young girl from the Bronx would end up becoming the longest serving female professional dancer on a British TV institution?"

Ms Mushtuk was similarly full of praise for the show. She said: "With a heart full of gratitude, the time has come for me to step away from Strictly Come Dancing. I am deeply grateful for the past 10 years on this beautiful show!

"Thank you for the amazing opportunity and the unforgettable memories. It has truly meant the world to me. Now it's time for me to follow my dreams beyond the show, and I'm excited for what the future holds.

"I can't wait to see you all on the Pro Tour, and I'm really looking forward to it for one last time. With all my love, Luba."

Meanwhile, Ms Bychkova said of her exit: "After nine wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving. There is something truly special about being part of a programme that plays such a big part in so many people’s lives.

"Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for.

"This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore."

And Ms Tsiakkas took to her social media to say: "Hi everyone, I wanted to share an update with you. I won’t be returning to Strictly this year. This has been an emotional time for me because Strictly has been a big part of my life, not just over the past 4 years but for as long as I can remember.

"It’s a show that I’ll always hold close to my heart. I want to thank the team for being supportive during this period, offering help and giving me the time and space to talk things through and process the news.

"Of course, as professionals on the show, we can never assume our places are guaranteed, but I hoped to have more time.

"I wish I could have shown you more of what I can do, but I’m grateful for every experience and every chance I had to share my passion and connect with the audience. I’ve also had to make the very hard decision to pull out from the Pro Tour in May.

"I was really looking forward to performing for you all and sharing the stage with my friends, but I know that right now I wouldn’t have been able to give you my very best, and you deserve the best.

"After reflection, I believe this was the best decision for me, and your understanding and support have meant a lot."