Wynne Evans, the Welsh opera singer best known for the Go Compare adverts, has apologised for an “inappropriate and unacceptable” sexual remark made during the launch of the Strictly Come Dancing live tour. The 52-year-old, who competed on the BBC One show last year, is currently touring with the live production.
The Mail on Sunday reported that Evans was recorded using the term “spitroast” – slang for a three-person sexual position – in a remark allegedly aimed at professional dancer and television presenter Janette Manrara. The Guardian understands that tour producers issued him a warning over the comment.
In a statement, Evans said: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable for which I sincerely apologise.” A spokesperson for the Strictly live tour and BBC Studios added: “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.”
This incident follows a previous controversy in October, when Evans and his dance partner Katya Jones apologised for a “joke” that saw her move his hand from her waist during the BBC show. Jones later defended Evans, saying he had been “portrayed as someone he is not”. Chaperones were introduced during Strictly rehearsals last year after a BBC review following contestant complaints.
Evans missed dancing at the Glasgow tour date on Saturday due to an ankle injury but hopes to return. In a social media video, he said: “Ankle’s getting a bit better, it was great to be able to sing in Glasgow tonight, even if I couldn’t dance, hopefully back tomorrow.” The tour continues in Liverpool and Leeds this week.
