Wynne Evans recently exited the Strictly Come Dancing live tour after making an inappropriate sexual comment during the tour launch. His remark, referencing a group sex scenario involving host Janette Manrara, was deemed unacceptable. Evans acknowledged the incident and stepped away to focus on his mental health amid personal struggles, including his brother's death. The BBC has since reinforced duty-of-care measures for participants, highlighting the ongoing conversation about wellbeing in high-pressure environments.
Controversy has led Wynne Evans to step away from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour following a sexual comment made during the tour launch on January 16. The remark, directed at tour host Janette Manrara, included a suggestion of a group sex session and was captured on video. The incident occurred in Birmingham, adding to the gravity of the situation.
Evans apologized, calling the comment "inappropriate and unacceptable." Although Manrara's representative stated she did not hear the comment, the incident prompted Evans' removal from the tour. This was not the first warning he had received about his behavior, with prior concerns leading to the decision to exclude him.
Following the incident, Evans was advised to take time off for "self reflection" and to prioritize his mental health. Co-stars expressed concern about his wellbeing, particularly amid recent personal challenges, including the death of his brother. Wynne Evans' absence from his birthday meal with Strictly co-stars highlighted the impact of the ongoing controversy on his personal and professional life.
The BBC has introduced duty-of-care measures for the 2024 Strictly series, including chaperones in rehearsal rooms, highlighting the importance of self care and mental health support for participants. Evans will now take a break from all public commitments to focus on his recovery.
Despite the controversy, Evans received support from some Strictly colleagues. Katya Jones reposted a clip of their dance performance on Instagram, while Jowita Przystał shared a birthday tribute to him.
Backstage dancers and tour members also rallied behind him, acknowledging the pressures of the show. However, criticism emerged over the handling of the incident, with Dr Charlotte Proudman questioning the response.
Evans' exit marks another chapter in a tumultuous journey on Strictly, where he was the eighth contestant eliminated from the 2024 series. This incident is not his first controversy on the show, as he had previously faced scrutiny over his behavior.
Replaced by Robin Morgan on his BBC Radio Wales show, Evans' departure underscores the challenges of balancing public scrutiny with personal struggles. His decision to step away reflects a focus on healing and underscores the importance of mental health in high-pressure environments.
