Wynne Evans‘ Strictly co-stars stars are rallying around the Welshman on his birthday, after the BBC confirmed he’s been granted leave from his radio show amid the backlash surrounding an X-rated remark.
The opera star’s future at the BBC has been under intense scrutiny since he was caught on film by The Mail on Sunday making a vile sexual comment about Jeanette Manrara.
On Monday, Wynne accepted the BBC’s offer to take time off from his BBC Wales show, which he has been hosting from regional studios while he has been taking part on the nationwide tour.
A source told MailOnline the break was sparked by the furore surrounding his comment, plus the fact he is still mourning his older brother Huw, who died earlier this month, combined with the physical toll of being on the road.
Wynne was comforted by his co-stars on his 53rd birthday on Monday, as they’re mindful of his fragile mental health.
An insider said: ‘Wynne is being supported by his co-stars, they’re making a big push to ensure he’s ok as they’re worried about his mental health.
Wynne Evans’ Strictly co-stars stars are rallying around the Welshman on his birthday, after the BBC confirmed he’s been granted leave from his radio show amid the backlash surrounding an X-rated remark
Wynne was comforted by his co-stars on his 53rd birthday on Monday, as they’re mindful of his fragile mental health
‘He’s had a tough few days and with it being his birthday today, they’re making a real effort to show he’s not alone.’
Wynne was recorded earlier this month crudely suggesting a three-way sex session with presenter Janette, 41, using the hugely demeaning term ‘spit roast’.
He was expected to present his show on Monday morning, but in a statement, BBC Wales said that comedian Robin Morgan, who has covered for him in the past, will be presenting in his place while he takes some time off.
Wynne perfected the latest leg of the Strictly tour at the OVO Hydro Glasgow on Sunday night.
His appearance came hours after he apologised for making the remarks to Janette in The Mail on Sunday.
He said: ‘My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise.’
A spokesman for BBC Studios and the Strictly Live tour producers said: ‘We were not previously aware of the remark and did not receive any complaints. We have made it very clear to Wynne that we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour.’
It was revealed on Sunday night Wynne would not be axed from the tour in light of his comments.
The opera star’s future at the BBC has been under intense scrutiny since he was caught on film by The Mail on Sunday making a vile sexual comment about Jeanette Manrara
On Monday, Wynne accepted the BBC’s offer to take time off from his BBC Wales show, which he has been hosting from regional studios while he has been taking part on the tour
A source told MailOnline the break was sparked by the furore surrounding his comment, plus the fact he is still mourning his older brother Huw (L), who died earlier this month, combined with the physical toll of being on the road
Wynne was comforted by his co-stars on his 53rd birthday on Monday, as they’re mindful of his fragile mental health
A tour insider told The Sun said: ‘As soon as they were alerted to the remarks, tour producers called a meeting with Wynne.
‘He was very apologetic and fully agreed that what he said was inappropriate and unacceptable. He was given a warning and told in no uncertain terms that that kind of language is not tolerated.
‘He’s clearly very visibly upset, devastated and full of remorse backstage in Glasgow. Wynne is a very popular member of the tour. He has become great friends with many of the cast and crew.’
