What Did Wynne Evans Say? Full Breakdown of the Strictly Controversy
Wynne Evans, the Welsh tenor and entertainer best known for his role as Gio Compario in the Go.Compare adverts, has recently found himself at the center of a public firestorm. The question on many people’s minds is simple but loaded: What did Wynne Evans say? This article provides a full, detailed, and unbiased exploration of the events surrounding Wynne Evans and the backlash he faced during and after the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour.
Using reliable information and exploring the context of his remarks, the consequences, and his public response, we dive deep into the controversy. We also explore related keywords and topics including wynne evans, what did wynne evans say strictly, wynne evans controversy, and wynne evans strictly come dancing.
Who is Wynne Evans?
Early Life and Career
Wynne Evans was born on January 27, 1972, in Carmarthen, Wales. A classically trained opera singer, he studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and later joined the National Opera Studio. His powerful tenor voice has graced some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including the Royal Opera House and the Welsh National Opera.
Rise to Public Fame
Outside of opera, Wynne became a household name in the UK due to his comedic and flamboyant character Gio Compario, the over-the-top mascot for Go.Compare advertisements. Beyond commercial fame, he became a familiar voice on BBC Radio Wales and even won Celebrity MasterChef in 2023. His charisma and enthusiasm led to a strong following and a spot on Strictly Come Dancing: The Live Tour in 2024.
What Did Wynne Evans Say? The Controversial Remark
The Comment at the Center of the Storm
In January 2025, during the promotional photocall for the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour, Wynne Evans allegedly made a crude joke involving the term “spit-roast.” The comment, reportedly directed toward tour host Janette Manrara, was interpreted by some as sexually suggestive and highly inappropriate, especially in a public setting surrounded by press and cameras.
Immediate Reaction and Backlash
Witnesses at the event and later reports stated that the comment caused discomfort among cast members. Tour producers issued a warning, and the backlash online was swift. People began searching for “what did Wynne Evans say strictly” and “wynne evans controversy” as the story gained traction across media outlets.
Wynne Evans’ Explanation and Apology
Public Apology
Wynne Evans soon released a formal statement acknowledging the seriousness of the incident. He admitted his language was “inappropriate and unacceptable,” offering a sincere apology to those affected. The apology was seen by many as a necessary first step, though others felt the damage had already been done.
His Side of the Story
In a later interview, Evans explained that the remark was actually an inside joke between himself and fellow Strictly tour member Jamie Borthwick. According to Evans, the nickname “Old Spit-Roast Boy” referred to a private running joke about Jamie’s unusual flexibility—not intended as a sexual innuendo or directed at Janette Manrara.
This explanation, while clarifying intent, did not absolve him in the eyes of all observers. Critics emphasized that the term itself was still offensive and unsuitable for a professional environment, regardless of context.
Wynne Evans Controversy: More Than Just a Comment
Fallout from the Incident
The consequences of the remark rippled beyond the tour. Evans voluntarily stepped back from the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour and took a temporary leave from his BBC Radio Wales show. Speculation about the future of his broadcasting career intensified, and soon after, the BBC confirmed that his contract would not be renewed.
Personal and Emotional Impact
In a later emotional interview, Evans revealed that the entire episode took a significant toll on his mental health. He admitted to experiencing a severe mental health crisis, disclosing that he was under 24/7 suicide watch by an NHS crisis team. The pressure from the public backlash, media coverage, and the personal sense of shame pushed him to his lowest point.
His openness about his struggles earned him empathy from many fans and mental health advocates, who applauded his courage for speaking up during a dark time.
Wynne Evans Strictly Come Dancing Experience
His Time on the Show
Prior to the controversy, Wynne Evans had been a lively and entertaining presence on the Strictly Come Dancing tour. Partnered with professional dancer Katya Jones, he brought humor and charm to his performances, delighting fans in venues across the UK. His involvement in the show highlighted his versatility as an entertainer and his genuine love for performance.
The “Body Language Experiment” With Katya Jones
Earlier in the tour, another moment involving Wynne and Katya sparked minor controversy. A viral video clip showed Evans placing his hand on her waist in a way that sparked debate online. They later clarified that the moment was part of a TikTok body-language experiment and was intended as a light-hearted joke. Still, the incident added to the scrutiny he faced during the tour.
Life After the Controversy
Leaving the BBC
After the controversy, the BBC chose not to renew Wynne’s radio show. Though disappointing for his fans, the decision allowed Evans to take a step back and focus on recovery. He later returned to the public eye with a self-produced online breakfast show, which debuted with an impressive audience of 40,000 viewers.
Engagement Announcement
In a moment of personal joy, Evans announced his engagement to his girlfriend, Liz Brookes. He proposed during a romantic trip to Morocco, symbolizing a fresh chapter in his life after months of difficulty. The news was met with positive responses, with many supporters expressing hope for his continued healing and success.
Conclusion
The question “What did Wynne Evans say?” reveals a deeper story than just one comment. While the remark itself was inappropriate, Evans’ response—marked by humility, honesty, and emotional vulnerability—offered a rare insight into the toll public mistakes can take on a person.
From winning over the public with his operatic flair and comedic charm, to facing widespread criticism and personal crisis, and now rebuilding his life, Wynne Evans remains a complex and deeply human figure. His story serves as a cautionary tale on the power of words, the speed of public judgment, and the importance of accountability and compassion.
