Strictly Come Dancing bosses make decision on Wynne Evans' future after 'unacceptable' remark to female dancer
Strictly Come Dancing bosses have made a significant decision regarding Wynne Evans' future after his inappropriate sexual comment came to light. The opera singer and GoCompare advert star, who is currently participating in the UK tour, was caught on camera making an unsuitable remark about his co-stars at the press call for the tour in Birmingham.
Despite his apology, there are still questions about his future on the tour and with the BBC, where he hosts a radio show. Evans was filmed making an offensive sexual comment to Janette Manrara, the tour's host, when she approached the group. He sang out: "Go Compare," before adding: "Not too close to Jamie [Borthwick]."
He then used the highly demeaning term "spit roast" in reference to a crude sexual act. In a statement to the Mirror, Evans said: "My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise." According to a tour insider who spoke to the Sun, bosses were reportedly satisfied with Evans' apology, reports the Mirror. "As soon as they were alerted to the remarks, tour producers called a meeting with Wynne," the source said.
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"He was very apologetic and fully agreed that what he said was inappropriate and unacceptable. He was given a warning and told in no uncertain terms that that kind of language is not tolerated." Sources have reported that Evans was "visibly upset" and "full of remorse" following an incident backstage in Glasgow.
The insider mentioned that Evans is known for his humour but admitted that "on this occasion he just didn't think and overstepped the mark". He is said to be receiving mental health support now. This isn't the first time Evans has faced criticism for his actions. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter.
During a live broadcast of the BBC show, he was criticised for what seemed to be inappropriate touching of his dance partner Katya Jones. However, both claimed it was an "inside joke" with Katya coming to Evans' defence. Evans also found himself embroiled in controversy after making a "vulgar" joke off-camera, which was subsequently leaked. He joked that his double chin looked like a vagina while getting his makeup done.
Despite their explanation for the 'grope' incident, some Strictly viewers were not convinced by the apology and labelled his behaviour as inappropriate. The backlash only strengthened Katya and Wynne's resolve to address the issue, which they did during their appearance on the spin-off show It Takes Two.
Katya said: "Sorry Fleur [East], sorry, I will get onto dancing I promise but can I please first get something out of the way that I feel like overshadowed our performance for absolutely no reason and quite frankly, actually, I can't bare sitting here watching this man [Wynne] being portrayed as someone he's not.
"In fact, it couldn't be further away from the truth so I have to make this absolutely clear that this whole incident with the hand and the high five on Saturday night it was an inside joke between Wynne and I. Was it a silly joke? Yes! Was it a bad joke? Yes!"
Wynne added: "Yeah and I've watched it back, I can see how people may have misinterpreted it." Katya continued: "Yeah but however, it was a joke and even the idea that it made me feel 'uncomfortable' or 'offended' in anyway is total nonsense.
"Those that have doubts, you guys have it got wrong! So hopefully this will be the end of it. You [Wynne] just keep making me smile, please!" The Mirror has said they have contacted the Strictly Tour for a comment.
