Wynne Evans, a star of Strictly Come Dancing, has stepped away from the show’s live tour after reaching an agreement with the BBC to “take some time out” to focus on his “wellbeing.” The 53-year-old Welsh opera singer, known for his role in the GoCompare insurance commercials, expressed regret over an “inappropriate and unacceptable” comment he made during the tour’s launch event.
In a statement, Evans said, “I’ve agreed with the BBC that I’ll take some time out from my radio show and the Strictly Live tour, as well as my other public commitments, to prioritize my wellbeing. I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and I plan to use this time for self-reflection. I apologize to those I won’t be able to see at the remaining performances and am grateful to my fellow tour members for their amazing support.”
The tour commenced on January 17, with Evans performing alongside his dance partner Katya Jones from the previous BBC TV series. He missed shows in Glasgow over the weekend, citing an ankle injury and sharing images of his bruises on Instagram.
Following an incident during the launch event on January 16, where he made a remark to a woman that was deemed inappropriate, Evans issued an apology. “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologize,” he stated.
The Strictly live tour will proceed without him, with 12 performances remaining, including shows in Liverpool tonight and tomorrow. Additionally, Evans is taking a break from his weekday morning show on BBC Radio Wales, with broadcaster Robin Morgan filling in during his absence. BBC Wales has not provided further comments regarding Evans’s statement.
In October, both Evans and Jones had previously apologized for a “joke” that arose when viewers noticed Jones moving his hand from her waist during a performance. The pair described this as “a running joke,” despite Jones appearing reluctant to engage in a high-five with her celebrity partner. For the upcoming 2024 series, Strictly has implemented chaperones “at all times” during rehearsals.
