Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans has issued a public apology after making an “inappropriate and unacceptable” sexual remark during the launch event for the Strictly Come Dancing live tour. The 52-year-old, best known for singing the Go Compare insurance jingle, allegedly used the term “spitroast” in reference to professional dancer and TV host Janette Manrara.
Evans, who competed on the hit BBC dance show last year, said in a statement: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable for which I sincerely apologise.” Tour producers confirmed they had given him a warning over the crude comment but were previously unaware of the incident as no complaints had been received.
Second Controversy for Evans
This marks the second time Evans has apologized for his behavior on Strictly. In October, he and dance partner Katya Jones said sorry for an ill-conceived “joke” that resulted in her moving his hand from her waist during a performance. Jones came to Evans’ defense at the time, insisting the whole thing had been blown out of proportion.
“The idea that it made me feel uncomfortable or offended in any way is total nonsense,” she said on spin-off show It Takes Two. “It was an inside joke between Wynne and I. Was it a silly joke? Yes. A bad joke? Yes.”
– Katya Jones
Storm Disrupts Glasgow Shows
As if the backstage drama wasn’t enough, Storm Éowyn forced the cancellation of Friday’s Strictly live show in Glasgow. Judge Craig Revel Horwood said the performance had to be rescheduled for Sunday due to safety concerns. Saturday’s show went ahead as planned.
Evans himself missed Saturday’s dancing due to an ankle injury but still performed the singing portions. He posted a video update for fans that evening:
“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. But watch this space, I’ll let you know in the morning.”
– Wynne Evans
The Strictly tour has upcoming stops in Liverpool and Leeds later this week. It remains to be seen if Evans will be able to resume dancing and how his latest controversy may affect his reception from live audiences. The veteran performer is undoubtedly hoping to shift focus back to his vocal talents rather than off-stage missteps as the show goes on.
