Strictly Come Dancing star Wynne Evans has apologised for making an "inappropriate and unacceptable" comment during the live tour launch.
The opera singer reportedly made a sexualised remark during the photocall for the Strictly tour in Birmingham, which was recorded by The Mail on Sunday. The publication said that the comment was directed at It Takes Two host Janette Manrara.
Evans expressed regret over the comment in a statement.
"My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise," Evans told BBC News.
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A spokesperson for the Strictly Live Tour and BBC Studios also commented, saying: "We have made it very clear to Wynne that we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour.
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"We were not previously aware of the remark and did not receive any complaints."
Evans took part in the latest season of Strictly Come Dancing with pro partner Katya Jones.
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Last year, the singer was at the centre of a controversy when Jones appeared to remove his hand from her waist during a break in between dances. Viewers also noticed Jones seemingly ignoring a high-five from Evans.
The couple later posted on social media to clarify they were "just messing around" and that it was a "very silly inside joke", with Jones also saying that "the idea that it made me feel uncomfortable or offended in any way is complete nonsense".
In a follow-up comment on the BBC's Radio Wales Breakfast Show, Evans added he was "absolutely heartbroken" by the media attention the moment had drawn, with Jones calling for an "end" to the backlash.
Following Evans and Jones' response, the incident was criticised by Women's Aid, which released a statement reading: "Inappropriate behaviour towards women is no laughing matter."
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, organisations including Refuge and Women's Aid can provide support and information. The 24-hour, freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 2000 247. The US National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text LOVEIS to 22522.
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Stefania is a freelance writer specialising in TV and movies. After graduating from City University, London, she covered LGBTQ+ news and pursued a career in entertainment journalism, with her work appearing in outlets including Little White Lies, The Skinny, Radio Times and Digital Spy.
Her beats are horror films and period dramas, especially if fronted by queer women. She can argue why Scream is the best slasher in four languages (and a half).
