Wynne Evans, best known as the face of Go Compare, has reportedly been left devastated after being removed from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour over an inappropriate joke. 

The 53-year-old opera singer is said to be considering legal action against the BBC, 

believing he has been treated unfairly after his comments at a tour press event sparked controversy.

Wynne Evans’ Controversial Comment

The controversy began when footage surfaced of Evans making a crude joke directed at Strictly tour host Janette Manrara. 

During the press event, he was recorded using an offensive term suggesting a three-way sexual encounter, a remark widely regarded as demeaning.

Although Manrara herself did not file a complaint, the BBC took swift action, removing Evans from the Strictly live tour. He later issued an apology, acknowledging his inappropriate remark. However, sources close to Evans claim the comment was part of long-running banter among those involved in the tour and that many were already familiar with the phrase.

Claims of a Long-Standing Joke

According to insiders, the phrase Evans used was a well-known joke within the Strictly touring group, with many cast members allegedly aware of it before the press event. A source revealed that it had been “widely remarked on and laughed at during the tour” and was a running gag among the professionals and celebrities.

Despite this, once the footage became public, Evans was swiftly dropped from the live tour, a decision that has left him feeling betrayed. Friends of the Welsh singer claim he is particularly upset that no one from the Strictly circle publicly defended him, despite the joke reportedly being common knowledge.

Wynne Evans Considering Legal Action

Reports suggest that Evans is now seeking legal advice and may take the BBC to an employment tribunal over what he sees as unfair treatment. A source close to the singer stated, “He said he is going to a tribunal with the BBC and will fight with every breath in his body.”

Evans reportedly feels his reputation has been destroyed by the incident, particularly as he had already apologized for his comment. Sources claim that he believes his axing from the tour was a “knee-jerk reaction” to public backlash rather than a fair decision based on his overall conduct.

Go Compare and BBC Wales Also Impacted

The fallout from the controversy has extended beyond the Strictly tour. It has been reported that executives at Go Compare, the insurance company Evans has represented in advertisements since 2009, have held crisis meetings to discuss his future with the brand.

Additionally, Evans has stepped back from his BBC Wales radio show, further fueling speculation about the long-term impact on his career.

Mixed Reactions from Peers and Fans

Evans’ friends and colleagues have offered mixed reactions to the scandal. Some believe the situation has been blown out of proportion, with one friend describing him as having a “terrible sense of humor” that sometimes goes too far.

Speaking to The Mirror, a friend of Evans defended him, stating, “At the end of the day, he has been a bit of an oaf and made a stupid mistake, but does he deserve such hatred?” The source went on to argue that while Evans now recognizes that his comment was inappropriate, his intention was to entertain rather than offend.

On the other hand, the BBC has remained firm in its stance, declining to comment further on the matter but standing by its decision to remove him from the tour.

Evans Issues Statement Following Strictly Exit

Following his departure from the Strictly live tour, Evans released a statement addressing the controversy. He announced that he would be taking a break from public engagements to focus on his well-being, saying:

“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 well-being.”

“I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and plan to take this time for self-reflection.”

While Evans acknowledged his wrongdoing, his supporters argue that he has been unfairly targeted, particularly as no formal complaints were made against him.

What’s Next for Wynne Evans?

Despite the scandal, some of Evans’ friends believe he will weather the storm. One source stated that talk of his career being over is premature, citing his popularity on the radio and his well-liked personality.

Professional dancer Katya Jones, who was partnered with Evans on Strictly, appeared to show support by reposting his statement and urging fans to show “humanity and consideration.” However, the controversy has reportedly led to tensions within the Strictly cast, with some dancers distancing themselves from Evans in the aftermath.

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