Wynne Evans ‘taking time off’ BBC radio show after apology for ‘unacceptable’ language
Broadcaster Wynne Evans is taking time off from his BBC Radio Wales show following controversy over an “inappropriate and unacceptable” comment made during the Strictly Come Dancing live tour launch.
The Welsh opera star and Go Compare ad campaign performer was absent from his regular radio slot on Monday.
BBC Wales confirmed Evans’ temporary departure but declined to comment on whether he had voluntarily taken leave or been asked not to present.
The announcement comes after Evans apologised for making what the Mail on Sunday described as a sexualised remark during a photo opportunity at Birmingham Arena earlier this month.
The incident occurred as the Strictly tour group gathered for a stage photo.
In a statement issued to BBC News on Sunday, Evans said: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise.”
A spokesperson for the Strictly Live Tour and BBC Studios said they had not previously been aware of the remark and received no complaints.
However, they added they had “made it very clear to Wynne that we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour”.
The Mail on Sunday reported that Evans made the sexualised comment at Birmingham Arena as the group prepared for a photo on stage.
BBC Wales announced that comedian Robin Morgan, who has previously covered for Evans, will be presenting in his place during the time off.
The broadcaster did not specify how long Evans would be away from his regular radio programme.
Evans has been part of the BBC Radio Wales presenting team for more than a decade.
The Welsh performer was expected to present his show on Monday morning before the announcement of his temporary departure.
Evans had previously faced scrutiny during his time on Strictly Come Dancing over interactions with professional dance partner Katya Jones.
The Welsh star was criticised for “awkward moments” with Jones, including an incident where she appeared to move his hand from her waist during a live show.
Another moment saw Jones seemingly decline a high-five from Evans during the series.
Both performers insisted these incidents were simply a “running joke” between them.
Evans addressed the controversy on his BBC Radio Wales show at the time, saying he was “heartbroken” by the public backlash.
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Jones repeatedly defended her dance partner, maintaining that the incidents resulted from an “inside joke” that had gone awry.
A representative for Evans confirmed he will continue to participate in the Strictly tour across the UK until 9 February, including Monday evening’s show in Liverpool.
On Saturday night, Evans was unable to dance in the tour performance due to an injury.
Despite being sidelined from dancing, he still performed singing duties during the arena show.
The tour will continue its run across various UK venues over the coming weeks, with Evans maintaining his involvement despite the recent controversy.