Wynne Evans, the Welsh opera singer famed for his role in the Go.Compare adverts, has announced he’s been let go by the BBC after previously admitting to using “inappropriate language” during the Strictly Come Dancing tour launch. The former BBC Radio Wales presenter shared the news with his followers on Friday, having taken a break from his radio show and the Strictly tour earlier this year to focus on his mental health.
In an interview with the Sun on Sunday earlier in the month, Evans claimed he hadn’t seen the statement issued apologising for his comments, a claim which sources suggest the BBC does not accept. Taking to Instagram, he expressed his gratitude to his supporters: “My beloved Wynners, From the very depths of my heart – thank you.”
He continued to share his appreciation, saying, “These past few months, your love has been the light in my darkest days. Every message, every word of encouragement, every moment you stood by me has carried me through more than you could ever know.”
Evans then revealed the sad news about his departure from the BBC: “It breaks my heart to say the BBC has decided not to renew my contract so I won’t be returning to my radio show. I’m gutted.”
He reminisced about his time on air, describing it as more than just a job but a place where a community was built: “That show wasn’t just work – it was home. It was us. We laughed, we cried, we sang like nobody was listening. And somehow, through the airwaves, we became a family.” Despite the setback, Evans told fans about his new venture, The Wynne Evans Show online, which he admits is “terrifying”.
He concluded with a rallying call to his audience: “This is our next adventure. And I need you more than ever.” He added: “We will have great music, my question of the day, the mystery voice, your soundtrack stories and so much more, because we have each other again. We have a new home. I’m bringing more presenters soon and I am sure you’ll recognise a few of the faces.”
Evans also expressed his mixed emotions: “Full of nerves. Full of hope. Full of love. Because when we show up for each other – like we always have – anything is possible”.
After he faced backlash for using what he described as “inappropriate and unacceptable” language at this year’s Strictly launch event, which The Mail On Sunday brought to light, Evans was reportedly reprimanded by tour producers. This January, Evans announced a hiatus: “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 prioritise my wellbeing.”
He acknowledged the harm caused: “I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and plan to take this time for self-reflection.” Expressing regret to his fans, he said, “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.”
The singer, notably famed for his performance in the 25th anniversary of The Phantom Of The Opera and his recent triumph in 2023’s Celebrity MasterChef, opened up to the Sun on Sunday earlier this month, insisting that his comment on Strictly was not sexual or aimed at any female member of the cast but rather a nickname for fellow contestant, the EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick.
Speaking to the publication, he explained: “I didn’t see the statement, Old Spit-roast Boy was a nickname for Jamie Borthwick. I’m not a bad guy, I’m not a misogynist, I’m not any of these things.”
Evans also commented: “And so I went, ‘I’m so sorry’. And that was taken as a formal apology, so the press team issued a statement. I didn’t see it.” He expressed his dismay by sharing: “When I read the apology within the context of the story as it had been written, I was absolutely horrified.”
It’s believed that any statements made on behalf of Evans by the BBC were fully sanctioned by him, and he also conveyed his apologies through an Instagram post. While on Strictly, there was a stir caused when footage showed Evans placing his hand on the waist of his dance partner Katya Jones, which she subsequently moved away; both later said it was meant as a “joke” and apologised.
The BBC has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding Evans’ contract situation.
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