Opera Singer Faces Dismissal After Crude Remark About Dancer Janette Manrara
Opera singer Wynne Evans is reportedly set to be dismissed from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour following allegations of inappropriate behaviour. The BBC is expected to release an official statement confirming his departure later today.
Evans, 53, made a crude comment during a photo call for the tour’s launch, suggesting a group sex session involving presenter Janette Manrara and EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick. The remark, captured on film, was met with discomfort from Borthwick, who visibly winced.
After the incident, Evans issued an apology, acknowledging that his language had been “inappropriate and unacceptable.”
Manrara’s representative stated that she did not hear the comment, while a spokesperson for the Strictly live tour and BBC Studios confirmed they were unaware of the remark until it came to light. The spokesperson emphasised that such behaviour is not tolerated on the tour.
A source revealed that Evans had previously received multiple warnings about his conduct and had been urged to adjust his behaviour. The BBC, in the wake of the incident, is taking action to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.
Further reports suggest that Evans may take a leave of absence from his role as a presenter on BBC Radio Wales following the fallout.
This incident follows a previous controversy involving Evans, when he faced backlash over a “joke” about placing his hand on his professional partner Katya Jones’s stomach, which led to awkward moments on the show. Jones later defended Evans, describing the incident as a “silly inside joke.”
The ongoing Strictly Come Dancing live tour, running through January and February at various UK stadiums, includes celebrity contestants such as Tasha Ghouri, Pete Wicks, and JB Gill, alongside a cast of professional dancers.
The BBC has introduced new welfare measures in response to last year’s accusations of bullying and abusive behaviour, which led to the dismissal of two professional dancers. For the 2024 series, the BBC has ensured chaperones are present in rehearsal spaces and has appointed welfare specialists to support the production.
