Wynne Evans has been removed from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour following controversy over repeated offensive remarks. The opera singer and star of the GoCompare adverts apologised for his behavior, acknowledging the “pain he caused.”
The decision comes after Evans made a demeaning comment toward tour host Janette Manrara during the tour’s launch in Birmingham. When Janette approached the group, Evans sang “Go Compare” before making a crude remark involving a lewd sexual act. In a statement to the Mirror, he said: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise.”
Evans has since confirmed his departure from the tour and announced he will be stepping away from his BBC radio show to focus on his wellbeing. In a statement, he said: “I’ve agreed with the BBC to take some time out from my radio show, the Strictly Live tour, and other public commitments to prioritise my wellbeing.
“I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused and will use this time for self-reflection. Apologies to those I won’t see at the remaining performances, and I’m grateful for the support from my fellow tour members.”
The BBC a ddressed the incident, revealing Evans had previously been warned about his behavior. A spokesperson for the Strictly Live Tour and BBC Studios said: “We were not aware of the remark at the time and received no complaints. However, we have made it very clear to Wynne that such behavior is unacceptable.”
A source told The Sun: “He’s had repeated warnings about his behavior but hasn’t reined it in. The BBC has to be seen taking action to safeguard everyone. Wynne has had a tough time following the loss of his brother, and this break will allow him some self-reflection. He has a lot of support from backstage dancers, and it’s a sad ending to what had been a fun tour.”
This is not the first controversy involving Evans since appearing on Strictly. During one TV episode, fans noticed an incident with his dance partner, Katya Jones, when she appeared to grimace as she removed his arm from her waist. However, both later clarified it was a “silly joke” that had been misunderstood.
In another reported incident, Evans allegedly made a vulgar joke to a make-up artist during the show’s launch, referring to the folds of his double chin. While no complaints were made, sources described the comment as inappropriate in a professional setting. A source close to Evans defended it as a self-deprecating joke, claiming it was not intended to offend.
Despite the controversies, Evans has expressed regret and committed to taking time away to reflect on his actions.
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