Opera singer and BBC radio Wales presenter Wynne Evans is eliminated after his Charleston performance fails to impress the judges on Sunday’s show.
Opera singer Wynne Evans has become the latest celebrity to leave Strictly Come Dancing 2024 after a disappointing Charleston performance in the dance-off. The 52-year-old Welshman, best known for his role in insurance adverts and as a BBC Radio Wales presenter, was eliminated during Sunday’s results show at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom.
Evans, paired with professional dancer Katya Jones, performed a Charleston to Carmen Suite No 1: 5. Les Toreadors by Georges Bizet, but it wasn’t enough to secure their place in the competition. The judges’ scores and the public vote placed them in the bottom two alongside Gladiators star Montell Douglas and her partner Johannes Radebe.
Despite their best efforts, the judges were unanimous in their decision to save Montell Douglas, whose salsa to Don’t Leave Me This Way by Thelma Houston impressed the panel. This marks the end of Evans’ journey on the BBC One show, leaving him and Jones to reflect on their time together.
Evans, who was visibly upbeat despite his departure, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. “It’s been wonderful, I’ve got to say,” he remarked. “If I can come and do Strictly and last until week nine, then anybody can get out there and dance.” The Welsh opera star continued, saying that his time on the show had been everything he expected from the Strictly experience.
His partner, Katya Jones, also praised Evans for his infectious energy and positive attitude. “The smile hasn’t left my face since the first day of our training,” Jones said, recalling their memorable partnership. “You bring light, you bring laughter, you bring charisma, you fill up every room you walk into with those qualities.”
Evans and Jones had previously been involved in a controversy earlier in the season over a “running joke” that backfired, with Jones moving Evans’ hand from her waist. The moment received some backlash, which both parties later apologised for, emphasising that it had been misinterpreted. Evans had admitted on radio that he was “heartbroken” by the reaction, acknowledging the intense scrutiny surrounding the show.
The incident highlighted the ongoing conversations around the welfare of celebrities on Strictly Come Dancing, with many stars openly discussing the pressures they face. In response, the show has implemented enhanced welfare measures, including the presence of chaperones during rehearsals to ensure a supportive environment for participants.
Despite his early exit, Evans remained in high spirits, praising the experience of being part of such a prestigious show. “It’s been wonderful, I’ve loved every minute of it,” he said, adding that he would treasure the memories created throughout his time on Strictly.
With Evans now eliminated, the competition continues, with seven remaining couples set to take to the dancefloor next week. Viewers can expect more fierce performances as the remaining contestants strive for a spot in the final.
