i've been reading through the forum and it just seems like evryones hates the new version of limewire. i'm using limewire pro 5.12 and java 6 update 13 and i love it. i like the new interface, admittedly it was a big change at first but after using it a few times i got used to it and it seems cleaner and more professional looking. i like the new features they've added its really simple to refine your search results and many other things.
the new limewire yields much more search results for me and downloads just as quick as the old version i was using (PRO 4.16.X)

however i wanted to know if any themes have been released for limewire 5 pro, or if theres a way of changing the splash screen.
thanks

Not yet. I believe the ability to add skins will return at some stage but might not be for a few months. Only way I could think of removing splash screen would be carefully manipulating the LW preferences, but not something I'd advise others to do.

You will probably like the new LW 5.2 beta with some new additions.