Katya Jones, a professional dancer on the popular dance competition Strictly Come Dancing, has recently spoken candidly about her experiences working with Wynne Evans amidst a series of controversies that have enveloped the opera singer. Evans, aged 53, was dismissed from the Strictly tour following a vulgar comment directed at fellow dancer Janette Manrara, and he is now embroiled in another scandal involving a sexually explicit video recorded backstage with actor Jamie Borthwick.
During the television series, viewers noted what they perceived as an awkward interaction between Katya and Wynne, specifically an incident where he appeared to place his hand on her waist and stomach. Katya has since clarified that the gesture was misinterpreted, asserting that their relationship was filled with "inside jokes." Speaking to The Sun about their partnership, she remarked, "We spent a huge amount of time together and we had a brilliant partnership. We got on like a house on fire."
The matter took a serious turn when Wynne was recorded making an inappropriate suggestion regarding a sexual encounter involving Janette. Although she did not lodge a formal complaint, Wynne offered an apology after footage surfaced, leading to his removal from the tour. Katya addressed the fallout, stating that Wynne had never made her feel uncomfortable and expressed her disappointment over his departure from the tour.
In recent developments, Wynne and Jamie Borthwick have faced criticism from BBC executives for a video that surfaced, in which Wynne presented Jamie with a sexual toy, jokingly filmed in a light-hearted manner just two days after the incident involving Janette. According to sources, BBC bosses were alarmed by the immature content deemed inappropriate for a family show. A source disclosed to the publication, "As soon as BBC executives were made aware... they formally addressed the issue and reminded the pair they had to act professionally."
Wynne Evans has indicated through social media that he intends to share his side of the story following these controversies, using hashtags such as "#truthwins" and expressing his desire to clarify what he feels has been unfairly portrayed. Though he acknowledged the inappropriateness of his language, he maintains that the context of his comments was misunderstood and insists that they were seen as banter among a close-knit group of colleagues.
His comments and behaviour have led to significant backlash, impacting his professional commitments as he has taken time away from his role on BBC Radio Wales. Sources indicate that he has since sought legal counsel, believing that the events have unfairly damaged his reputation. His girlfriend, Liz Brookes, is reportedly supporting him during this tumultuous time, as he faces mounting pressure.
Compounding these pressures, Wynne's departure from multiple brand collaborations and public appearances has left him feeling aggrieved, particularly as it appears that those who understood the humour behind his comments have not voiced their support. Following his dismissal, he has kept his audience updated via social media, often sharing insights into his personal fitness regime as a way to cope with recent events.
Katya, in the meantime, has expressed solidarity with Wynne, assuring that their working relationship was positive despite the suggestive gestures and ensuing misunderstandings. She continues to view him as a friend during his difficult period, while the events surrounding their time together are scrutinised by the public and media alike.
Source: Noah Wire Services