Wynne Evans Exits Strictly Come Dancing

Opera singer Wynne Evans is the eighth contestant to be eliminated from this season of Strictly Come Dancing, following a charleston performance that failed to impress the judges. The BBC Radio Wales presenter executed his routine in a dance-off segment during the results episode, which aired on Sunday from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. The 52-year-old Welsh personality, known for his appearances in insurance advertisements, had previously faced controversy alongside his dance partner Katya Jones earlier in the series when a “running joke” they shared was poorly received. In the most recent broadcast, Evans and Jones were among the bottom two couples, competing against Gladiators star Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe, a position determined by a combination of public votes and the judges’ scores. The judges’ choice to keep Douglas, who performed a salsa to “Don’t Leave Me This Way” by Thelma Houston, was unanimous. Evans, whose performance was set to “Carmen Suite No 1: 5. Les Toreadors” by Georges Bizet, expressed that he had experienced a “wonderful time” on the BBC One program. “It’s been wonderful, I’ve got to say,” Evans stated, adding, “I feel like it’s what Strictly is all about.” He continued, “If I can come and do Strictly and last until week nine, then anybody can get out there and dance.” Jones commented: “The smile hasn’t left my face since the first day of our training, since the day we got partnered up.” She further remarked that Evans had made the show “joyous,” stating: “I’m sure everybody was jealous, because you’re the kind of guy that everybody wants in their life.” She concluded, “You bring light, you bring laughter, you bring charisma, you fill up every room you walk into with those qualities.” The duo issued an apology after their “running joke” was met with a negative reaction. This incident involved Jones repositioning her dance partner’s hand from her waist, occurring amidst increased examination of the long-running program. Evans later stated on radio that he was “heartbroken” by the negative response and felt the moment had been misunderstood. Recently, celebrities have openly discussed their experiences and treatment, prompting the show to implement enhanced welfare protocols, such as providing chaperones during rehearsals. The seven remaining couples are scheduled to compete on the dancefloor next week. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.