```html Thomas Skinner Eliminated in First 'Strictly Come Dancing' Results Show

Former Apprentice star Thomas Skinner and his professional dance partner Amy Dowden were the first couple eliminated from this year's 'Strictly Come Dancing' after losing in the dance-off to former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova. The results were announced on Sunday night's show, following the couples' performances on Saturday.

Skinner's Farewell

Speaking to co-host Tess Daly after the verdict, Skinner, 34, expressed his gratitude and admiration for his partner. "Thank you, Amy - sorry that we haven't done too good, 'cause you're a different class," he said. Despite his short tenure on the show, Skinner maintained a positive attitude, stating he had "loved" his time on 'Strictly'. "I've never danced before and my stay was short, but Amy's amazing. It's been great fun and I've enjoyed it. I can't really dance that well but I've had fun!"

Dowden reciprocated the sentiment, praising Skinner for his support and positivity, particularly given her recent health challenges. She acknowledged the importance of happiness and health, adding, "The last three years as you know have been quite difficult for me. I lost all confidence as a dancer - but walking into the room with you with a massive smile and a laugh, you brought me back and, honestly, thank you."

The Dance-Off

Both couples performed their routines from Saturday night again in the dance-off. Skinner and Dowden reprised their salsa to Dizzee Rascal and Armand van Helden's "Bonkers," while Robshaw and Bychkova performed their Viennese waltz to Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars' "Die With A Smile." The judges ultimately voted in favor of Robshaw and Bychkova, sealing Skinner and Dowden's fate.

Judges' Commentary and Scores

During Saturday's live show, Skinner's routine, which involved lifting Dowden, drew comments from the judges, with Craig Revel Horwood jokingly suggesting it resembled a weightlifting competition. The couple received a score of 13, placing them at the bottom of the leaderboard. The scores from the first two weeks were combined with the public vote to determine the dance-off contestants.

Amy Dowden's Return and Perspective

Dowden's participation in this year's 'Strictly' held particular significance as she returned to the show after being diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. Although she had to withdraw midway through the series due to an injury, her presence and resilience were widely celebrated. Her comments about prioritizing happiness and health resonated deeply with viewers and highlighted the personal journeys often intertwined with the entertainment world.

Context within 'Strictly's' History

'Strictly Come Dancing', a staple of British television since its debut in 2004, has consistently attracted a diverse range of celebrities and professional dancers. The show's enduring popularity stems from its blend of entertainment, competition, and emotional narratives. Each season features its own unique dynamics, with contestants facing not only the challenges of learning complex dance routines but also the pressures of public scrutiny and the judges' critiques. The eliminations, particularly the first one, often set the tone for the rest of the series, creating both excitement and disappointment for viewers.

Expert Perspective

Dr. Sarah Jones, a media studies professor at the University of Cardiff, notes that "the early eliminations in shows like 'Strictly' are crucial in shaping audience narratives. The departure of a personality like Thomas Skinner, known for his humor and unconventional approach, highlights the show's balance between technical skill and entertainment value. While the judges prioritize dance proficiency, audience appeal and the perceived 'journey' of a contestant also play a significant role in the voting process."

Skinner's Background and Future Projects

Prior to 'Strictly', Skinner gained recognition on 'The Apprentice' in 2019 and has since appeared on various television programs, including '8 Out of 10 Cats' and 'Celebrity Masterchef'. He is also known for his social media presence and involvement in various business ventures, including a gym, and his regular appearances on TalkSport Radio. It is expected that he will continue to pursue these avenues following his departure from 'Strictly'.

Looking Ahead

The remaining 14 couples will perform next week in the show's Movie Week, a themed episode that historically brings creative costumes and energetic performances. The competition remains fierce, and viewers are eagerly anticipating the evolving dynamics between the contestants as the series progresses. ```