Strictly Live Tour host Janette Manrara has ended her social media hiatus following the controversy surrounding Wynne Evans, who was removed from the show after making an inappropriate comment towards her.
The Welsh opera singer, 53, was heard making a crude remark at a press event for the UK tour.
After issuing an apology, Wynne withdrew from his performance duties on the tour in light of the uproar and also resigned from his BBC radio programme.
Amidst the turmoil, 40-year-old Janette returned to social media. The professional dancer and presenter took the opportunity to express gratitude towards her mother for her support while touring across the UK.
On Instagram, Janette posted a heartfelt tribute accompanied by several photos and videos featuring herself, her mother, her husband Aljaž Škorjanec, 34, and their daughter Lyra, reports the Mirror.
In her post, Janette expressed: “This is a special post for my mother @stepby2designs who has really helped us out these past 2 weeks. It really does take a village and as a working parent, having her to be there for Lyra meant the world.”
She continued: “I could not be doing shows and entertaining audiences if it was not for her coming and making sure Lyra was well and looked after. It’s extra special as they do not get to spend time together and were really able to bond these past 2 weeks, with the surprise visit from her uncle (my brother @fizzymanrara) too! My heart was full. Mom, I love you, I appreciate you, and I cannot wait to see you again soon.”
Janette disabled comments on her recent post that was liked by nearly 10,000 fans.
Evans, known for his role in the Go Compare adverts, has stepped down from the live tour after making an inappropriate sexual remark towards Janette during a group photo with other Strictly stars.
He sang “Go Compare,” then added: “Not too close to Jamie.”
He then used the derogatory term “spit roast” referring to a crude sexual act, according to reports.
Janette’s reaction was obscured by other Strictly stars, but there was uncomfortable laughter, with Jamie grimacing and Evans seeming to chuckle at his own comment.
A video of Janette and Wynne performing together at a show after the incident has since been circulated online, leading some fans to speculate about how she must have felt. Following Wynne’s departure from the tour, his dance partner Katya Jones posted a message on social media.
Over an image of his apology post on her Instagram Stories, she wrote: “Let’s show humanity and consideration. I will miss you my darling boy.”
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