Wynne Evans, the Welsh tenor best known for his participation in Strictly Come Dancing and the Go Compare ads, has ignited controversy once again after making crude remarks during the promotional event for the Strictly live tour. The incident has drawn fresh scrutiny on the BBC show, which has recently been struggling to maintain its reputation amid various scandals.
At the official launch of the Strictly live tour held at the Birmingham Arena, Evans, 52, was recorded making inappropriate comments about co-host Janette Manrara, 41. Reports indicate he crudely suggested the notion of a "three-way" involving her, using the vulgar term "spit roast". Witnesses reported awkward reactions to his words, including EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, who was caught wincing at the time.
According to the Mail on Sunday, Evans's remarks were made as the cast posed for photographs, which others present deemed highly inappropriate. Journalist Dolly Busby, who filmed the incident, described the comments as "deeply abhorrent" and expressed her offense on behalf of Manrara, as well as being appalled personally.
Wynne Evans later issued a public apology, stating, "My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise." A spokesperson for BBC Studios and the producers of the Strictly Live tour asserted, "We were not previously aware of the remark and did not receive any complaints. We have made it very clear to Wynne we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour." This strict response reflects the broadcasting giant's effort to safeguard its image after enduring criticism over previous controversies.
The latest scandal slams the BBC as it continues to navigate through choppy waters after recent accusations of misconduct and inappropriate behaviour within the show. Last year, Evans faced backlash for incidents involving his dance partner, Katya Jones. During one performance, both faced criticism as it appeared Evans touched her waist too intimately, leading to critiques from viewers and claims of groping. The duo eventually dismissed those concerns, labeling them as misunderstandings and 'silly jokes'.
Despite the backlash, the incident surrounding Evans is unfortunately not the first controversy for Strictly Come Dancing. Over the past couple of years, it has seen allegations of bullying and toxic culture behind the scenes, prompting serious questions about integrity and professionalism within the production.
The BBC has taken steps to address such allegations. The corporation instituted measures like providing chaperones during rehearsals to prevent the harassment of contestants. These recent events amplify concerns surrounding the environment on set, as accusations of troubling behaviour persisted.
Further amplifying the scrutiny around Evans was his recent withdrawal from the Strictly tour, citing an ankle injury. He shared updates on his condition via social media, expressing hopes for recovery, but his presence on stage has been limited to singing due to his inability to dance. This reduction only adds to the troubled narrative surrounding his recent actions.
Evans’s scandalous comments have rekindled debates about the appropriateness of language and behaviour on television platforms, especially ones intended to appeal to family audiences. Stars from previous seasons like Craig Revel Horwood have openly weighed in, emphasizing the urgent need for clearer boundaries and consequences for inappropriate actions.
Speaking to the media, Evans has attempted to defuse prior tensions by explaining the history of banter among colleagues, though many remain unconvinced of the harmlessness of his jests. The backlash revived memories of last year's awkward exchanges with Jones, which some deemed crass, leading to yet another surprise attempt to rally support following his recent comments.
Adding fuel to the fire, Evans earlier found himself under fire for remarks made backstage where he joked about the appearance of his double chin, saying it resembled female anatomy. This specific incident, reportedly made during makeup sessions, only added to the scrutiny surrounding his understandings of comedic and professional boundaries.
While Evans may have once won fans over with his effort and enthusiasm on Strictly, this series of controversies may have permanently tarnished his image. The string of incidents raises questions about accountability and the standards expected of public figures participating on widely broadcast platforms.
With his latest remarks stoking outrage, audiences, BBC executives, and fellow contestants are forced to reconsider their positions around glamour, laughter, and respect within the entertainment industry. It will be pivotal for all parties involved to reflect on these incidents as discussions on proper conduct and respectability grow increasingly relevant.
Despite the growing societal awareness of the consequences of harassment and disrespect, incidents like this highlight gaps between expectations and reality. Wynne Evans's situation serves as yet another reminder of the need for transparency and accountability on platforms like Strictly Come Dancing.