Wynne Evans’ brother launches PETITION in defence of singer amid BBC Strictly tour axe as he breaks silence on saga
Wynne Evans’ brother, Mark Llewelyn Evans, has spoken out on the star’s departure from the Strictly Live Tour – and started a petition for the Strictly star to be fairly reported in the press.
The opera singer revealed last night that he and the BBC had come to a decision that he should step away from the tour due to his comments made towards Janette Manrara.
Now, his brother has broken his silence in support of the star’s challenging period and even started a petition to ensure he gets fair treatment when being reported on.
Taking to X, his brother defended: “As a brother, I want to express my unwavering support for him during this challenging time.
“Wynne has a heart of gold and the courage of a lion, paired with a talent that outshines most. His charisma and humour have brought joy to countless people.”
Underneath his tweet, he replied with the link to his petition which reads: “Demand Fair Treatment for Wynne Evans by the British Press
During the launch in Birmingham, Evans was heard making inappropriate sexual comments about Manrara, using the demeaning term “spit roast” in reference to a lewd sexual act.
Last night, he announced on his Instagram stories that he will no longer be involved and penned: “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 prioritise my wellbeing.
“I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and plan to take this time for self-reflection.”
Sources have indicated that Evans had received multiple warnings about his behaviour before the incident.
As a brother, I want to express my unwavering support for him during this challenging time. Wynne has a heart of gold and the courage of a lion, paired with a talent that outshines most. His charisma and humour have brought joy to countless people. @BBCRadioWales @BBCTV
— Mark Llewelyn Evans. (@markabcofopera) January 28, 2025
In the petition, Evans’ brother wrote: “I am Mark Llewelyn Evans, brother to the unfairly targeted Wynne Evans, who has recently been the subject of unjustified hostility by the British press. The integrity of Wynne, a beloved figure in our household and across Britain, has been maliciously and cruelly attacked, causing him tremendous distress and jeopardizing his career.
“Our family, still reeling from the recent loss of another brother, is further devastated by these uncharitable attacks on Wynne.
“The British press’s unchecked negativity towards Wynne is not reflective of his wide-ranging support from the British public. We believe in his undeniable talent, which richly contributes to the UK’s cultural sector. He is cherished by many who eagerly await his return to BBC Radio Wales and the Strictly Come Dancing stage.
“It’s time to demand the British press demonstrate responsibility, fairness, and restraint in their coverage.
“To this end, we call on the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), the UK’s independent regulator for newspaper and magazine industry, to scrutinize these instances of targeted hostility against Wynne Evans and enforce their Editors’ Code of Practice.
“By signing this petition, you are standing up against an unjust media culture and supporting Wynne Evans. Thank you for standing up for decency, compassion, and fair treatment in the British press. Please, sign this petition.”
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At the time of writing, the petition had 588 signatures out of the goal of 1,000.
Speaking of Evans’ previous warnings, a source told The Sun: “He’s had repeated warnings about his behaviour and told to rein it in. He’s not been taking it in, in this day and age the BBC have to be seen taking action and safeguarding everyone.
A tour insider added that Evans “was very apologetic and fully agreed that what he said was inappropriate and unacceptable.”
A Strictly Live Tour and BBC Studios spokesperson said they “were not previously aware of the remark” but made it clear such behaviour would not be tolerated.