Wynne Evans has faced significant backlash after being abruptly removed from the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour for making inappropriate remarks during the show's launch event. The 53-year-old opera singer, known for featuring in insurance commercials, had been participating in the live tour following his stint on the previous season of Strictly.
The controversy erupted after Evans reportedly suggested a group sex act involving presenter Janette Manrara and actor Jamie Borthwick, using the term "spit roast." This comment was captured on camera and later highlighted by Mail on Sunday. Following the incident, Jamie Borthwick was reportedly taken aback by the remark.
Confirming his departure from the show, Evans announced, "I’ve agreed with the BBC to take some time out from my radio show and the Strictly Live tour, as well as my other public commitments, to prioritize my wellbeing." He expressed remorse for his actions, saying he was sorry for the pain his comments caused. He added, "I plan to take this time for self-reflection. Apologies to those I won’t get to see at the remaining performances, and I’m grateful to my fellow tour gang for all the amazing support they have provided me." Evans’ exit from the tour came shortly before the performance scheduled for Liverpool.
Popular television presenter Lorraine Kelly did not mince words during her critique of Evans’ actions on Good Morning Britain. Speaking candidly, she emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, "I thought, ‘Come on, I just don’t get it, I don’t know why you would think to say something like this.’” Kelly described Evans' behavior as befuddling, saying, "What kind of person says this anyway, but what kind of nutter does this when they are being filmed? It’s bad enough to think it but then to say it, I don’t understand. I am baffled." Kelly dubbed Evans as a "complete clown" after the incident.
Katya Jones, Evans’ dance partner, showed her support following his dismissal and expressed concern for his wellbeing. She shared Evans' statement on her social media and emphasized the need for humanity and consideration during such turbulent times. Commenting on the situation, she stated, "I will miss you my darling boy," demonstrating her affection for Evans.
The fallout from Evans' inappropriate comment marks not only his second controversy on the show but raises questions about conduct within the entertainment industry. This incident is particularly notable as it follows previous scrutiny over his interactions during the televised competition.
Prior to this recent scandal, Evans faced criticism for his behavior during the televised episodes of Strictly Come Dancing last year, which included videos of him appearing to place his hand on Jones' stomach awkwardly, leading to perceptions of tension between the two.
Now the Strictly Live tour finds itself contending with additional challenges as Vito Coppola, another participant, announced his exit due to injury. Coppola, who had been performing alongside actress Sarah Hadland, took to Instagram to share his heartfelt goodbye. He remarked, "Even though I won't be able to be with you on the Strictly Arena Tour, we had the chance to dance one more time together and it has been as always super beautiful and memorable. Let's always see the glass half full and stay positive." He plans to support the tour from the sidelines as he recovers.
Evans’ situation has led to discussions about public responsibility and the consequences of inappropriate humor. Friends of the opera singer noted, "At the end of the day, he has been a bit of an oaf and made a stupid mistake, but does he deserve such hatred?" They commented on Evans’ reputation for being humorous, stating, "He is more Jim Davidson than Peter Kay, and if anything, is more guilty of having a terrible sense of humor.”
Evans’ behavior appears to stem from his penchant for jokes, but the fallout has raised questions about the limits of humor and the potential impact on professional careers. Indeed, some are wondering if Evans can redeem himself after this incident.
The repercussions of this scandal continue to echo through the Strictly Come Dancing community as participants reflect on personal boundaries and the public's perception of their actions. The tour, which features dancers and celebrities, must now navigate this altered dynamic as they proceed to upcoming performances.
Following Evans’ exit, the participating pairs have pledged to put on exceptional shows, attempting to shift the focus back to their performance and positive energy. With the involvement of all four Strictly judges for the first time on tour and decisions to continue without replacing Evans, the remaining contestants are poised to move forward.
Despite the controversies, fans continue to show strong support for the participants of the Strictly Live tour, underscoring the show's enduring popularity. They are eager for the live events to proceed successfully as the tour progresses across the country.