Wynne Evans confirms he’s been AXED by the BBC after probe as he shares emotional statement
HEARTBROKEN Strictly star Wynne Evans has been dropped by the BBC, he has revealed.
The opera singer has confirmed the corporation will not be renewing his one year rolling contract following a four-month investigation.
However, The Sun can reveal Wynne has secretly patented the name of his BBC Wales radio programme and is launching his own eponymous breakfast show next month in a move sure to infuriate Beeb execs.
In an Instagram statement the Welshman, 53, wrote: “My beloved Wynners, From the very depths of my heart — thank you.
“These past few months, your love has been the light in my darkest days.
“Every message, every word of encouragement, every moment you stood by me has carried me through more than you could ever know.
“It breaks my heart to say the BBC has decided not to renew my contract so I won’t be returning to my radio show. I’m gutted.
“That show wasn’t just work — it was home. It was us.
“We laughed, we cried, we sang like nobody was listening. And somehow, through the airwaves, we became a family.
“But here’s what I believe with everything I’ve got: what we built cannot end here.
“So — deep breath — here goes… We’re getting the band back together.
“The Wynne Evans Show is coming back, live every day from 9am–12pm on a new app, on Alexa and Google (we don’t have to say ‘smart speaker’ anymore!) and at www.wynneevansshow.co.uk.“
He continued: “This is our next adventure. And I need you more than ever.
“We will have great music, my question of the day, the mystery voice, your soundtrack stories and so much more, because we have each other again.”
News of Wynne’s axing comes four months after he was dropped from the Strictly tour for using the word “spitroast” at the official media photocall.
Whilst the star insisted he used it in reference to fellow contestant Jamie Borthwick – over his ability to contort his legs over his head like a chicken – the BBC insist he brought the organisation into disrepute.
It is understood Wynne, who has fronted the Go Compare ads since 2009, was informed of the corporation’s decision by email on Thursday.
It comes just days after he gave an emotional interview to the Sun on Sunday detailing the extent of his mental health battles following the scandal.
I loved the dancing part, and I did do really well but the rest of it wasn’t right for me with my personality and with depression. It wasn’t the right thing
Wynne Evans
Asked if he had been made a scapegoat following previous BBC controversies, he said: “I wouldn’t use that word and it’s very difficult for the BBC because, historically, and by their own admission they’ve got it very, very wrong.
“So now they have to investigate everything, and they have to be seen to investigate everything.
“Personally I don’t think I was due an investigation but I understand why they’ve had to go through this process.
“I loved the dancing part, and I did do really well but the rest of it wasn’t right for me with my personality and with depression. It wasn’t the right thing.
“But I can see other people who have thrived on it, but for me it’s not something I would do again. I wish I hadn’t done it.”
Last night a source close to Wynne said: “He is obviously gutted but deep down, he knew this verdict was probably coming.
“Wynne has been overwhelmed with support from friends, family and celebrities and has already had a couple of exciting TV objects mooted.
“He is now super-excited to get going on his radio show – he has an exciting couple of big name guests already lined up, and cannot wait to see what lies ahead.”