Katya Jones break silence as Wynne Evans steps back from Strictly tour
Katya Jones has thrown her support behind dance partner Wynne Evans following his decision to step back from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour. The 53-year-old opera singer, who is best known for appearing in the GoCompare adverts, competed on the hit BBC show alongside Jones and had been taking part in the show's nationwide live tour until The Mail on Sunday released footage of him making what was deemed to be a sexually inappropriate comment towards Janette Manrara.
On Tuesday evening, Evans addressed his followers on Instagram, stating: "I've agreed with the BBC that l'll take some time out from my radio show and the Strictly Live tour, as well as my other public commitments, to prioritise my wellbeing. "
"I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and plan to take this time for self-reflection."
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"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 given me." For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter
The Mail on Sunday reported that Evans had used the term "spit roast" in a joke towards host Manrara and Eastenders actor Jamie Borthwick. He later apologised, stating: "My language was inappropriate and unacceptable for which I sincerely apologise."
Following the announcement that Evans would not be continuing on the tour, Jones, 35, has taken to social media to ask people show "humanity and consideration" towards the radio presenter and said she will miss Evans on the tour.
Re-posting Evans' statement to her Instagram story, Jones said: "Let's show humanity and consideration. I miss you my darling boy."
She also shared a video of Evans joking at one of the live shows, adding: "Really missed this tonight."
After Evans' comment came to light, a spokesperson for BBC Studios said: "We were not previously aware of the remark and did not receive any complaints."
"We have made it very clear to Wynne that we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour."
