Wynne Evans, best known for his role as the Go Compare star,
is reportedly preparing to take legal action against the BBC after being dropped from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour.
The 53-year-old singer and presenter is said to feel betrayed by the network, believing his reputation has been severely damaged following his controversial exit.
Controversial Remarks Lead to Strictly Tour Departure
Evans found himself at the center of a scandal when footage surfaced of him making an inappropriate remark during the Strictly tour’s press launch.
The comment, which allegedly referenced tour host Janette Manrara in a crude manner, quickly sparked backlash.
While Evans apologized for his words, BBC bosses made the decision to remove him from the live tour.
Despite the controversy, Evans has maintained that his remark was not directed at Manrara. Sources close to the singer claim that other members of the tour understood the context of his joke, which he insists was an “inside joke” that did not cause offense at the time.
Evans Seeks Legal Action Against the BBC
According to reports, Evans is determined to fight the decision and has assembled a legal team to challenge the BBC. The singer, who has also hired a crisis PR expert, is reportedly pursuing a tribunal case, arguing that he was unfairly dismissed and that the network overreacted in response to public criticism.
A source speaking to The Sun claimed, “Wynne feels he has been treated unfairly and won’t go down without a fight. He believes many of his Strictly co-stars were aware of the joke’s context, yet no one has publicly defended him. He feels deeply let down.”
The BBC has not officially commented on Evans’ potential legal action.
Fallout and Career Uncertainty
Evans’ removal from the Strictly tour has had wider consequences for his career. He has taken a step back from his BBC Wales radio show, and sources suggest that his longstanding partnership with Go Compare, the insurance company he has fronted since 2009, may also be in jeopardy. Executives at the company have reportedly held crisis meetings to discuss his future as the face of their brand.
Additionally, Evans’ personal life has come under scrutiny. Initial reports suggested that his relationship with partner Liz Brookes had ended due to the scandal. However, recent sources indicate that Brookes is standing by him, offering support during what has been described as a “very tough period” for the singer.
Mixed Public Reactions and Industry Support
While Evans has faced significant backlash, he has also received some support from friends and industry colleagues. Strictly professional dancer Katya Jones, who was partnered with Evans on the show, shared a message of support on social media, urging people to show “humanity and consideration” towards him.
Meanwhile, friends of Evans argue that the controversy has been blown out of proportion. One insider described his remarks as “schoolboy comedy” and suggested that the reaction has been overly harsh. “Yes, using that term was wrong, and he knows it,” they said, referring to his controversial remark. “But does he deserve to have his career ruined over it? He made a mistake, and now he’s paying a heavy price.”
Future Prospects for Evans
Despite the controversy, Evans’ career may not be over. His BBC series All at Sea, which he co-hosts with Gavin & Stacey star Joanna Page, continues to air. Supporters believe he could make a comeback once the media storm dies down, pointing out his popularity as a radio host and television personality.
However, Evans remains focused on clearing his name. With his legal team preparing to take on the BBC, the coming months could determine whether he successfully rebuilds his reputation or faces further professional setbacks.
For now, Evans is taking time away from public engagements, stating in a previous statement that he will be using this period for “self-reflection.” Whether his legal challenge against the BBC will yield results remains to be seen.
