Wynne Evans, the opera singer and television personality, has publicly accused The Mail on Sunday of 'manipulating' video footage in which he made a controversial sexual comment regarding his Strictly co-star Janette Manrara. The 53-year-old Evans expressed these claims in a Facebook post, alleging that the newspaper had distorted the context of private conversations. His remarks come as he faces significant professional repercussions, including his withdrawal from a nationwide tour following the incident.

The controversy began when video footage captured Evans crudely suggesting a three-way sexual act, using the inappropriate term ‘spit roast’ while making a joke about Ms Manrara. This incident was widely reported, leading to Evans stepping back from engagements, including his BBC Wales show, while the broadcaster conducts an investigation into his behaviour.

In his Facebook remarks, Evans sought to shift the narrative, stating that the media had altered the story surrounding his comments. However, social media users have largely characterised his attempts to deflect blame as futile. One user remarked, “You did say that awful comment about a woman just doing her job. It was caught on camera. So how could the press have manipulated that?” Another commenter highlighted the discomfort felt over his response, suggesting that he was more troubled by getting caught than by the nature of his comments.

Despite the backlash, Evans has maintained that his comments were mischaracterised. "The audio was manipulated. I didn't say what they said," he claimed in response to critics. Furthermore, in a discussion with The Sun, Evans described his remark as a light-hearted reference linked to actor Jamie Borthwick, who he suggested looked like a 'spit roast chicken' due to his warm-up routine on the show.

The video, recorded by Mail on Sunday reporter Dolly Busby, shows Evans standing among a group of 20 celebrities and dancers when he makes the inappropriate joke as Ms Manrara approaches them. His expression and behaviour, combined with the remark, have led to public outcry and condemnation.

The BBC's investigation into Evans’ behaviour is ongoing, with findings expected to be disclosed within the next couple of weeks, leaving his future with the organisation uncertain amidst the escalating controversy.

Source: Noah Wire Services