Lorraine Kelly has branded Strictly Come Dancing star Wynne Evans a “nutter” and “complete clown” following his controversial exit from the show’s live tour.
The veteran broadcaster made the remarks during appearances on both Good Morning Britain and her own ITV show yesterday, after Evans was forced to leave the tour over inappropriate sexual comments.
Kelly expressed bewilderment at the Welsh opera singer’s behaviour during the tour’s photocall, where he made lewd remarks towards presenter Janette Manrara.
“I don’t get it, I don’t understand it, I don’t know why you would think that was acceptable,” Kelly told GMB host Susanna Reid.
During the tour’s Birmingham photocall, Evans was filmed making sexualised comments when Manrara approached the group.
The Go Compare star sang out his advertising catchphrase before adding: “Not too close to Jamie [Borthwick].”
He then used the highly offensive term “spit roast” in reference to a crude sexual act, with EastEnders actor Borthwick reportedly wincing at the remark.
The incident led to Evans issuing an immediate apology, stating: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable for which I sincerely apologise.”
A spokesperson for the Strictly Live Tour and BBC Studios said they had “made it very clear to Wynne that we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour.”
Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Kelly said: “What kind of nutter does that when you are being filmed? It’s bad enough to think it but then to actually say it!”
Later on her own show, she continued her criticism, branding Evans a “complete clown” and insisting he needed to “go away and think about what he did.”
Kelly acknowledged Evans was receiving support from fans and his professional dance partner Katya Jones, noting “he is getting support” and “he has apologised.”
However, she remained baffled by his actions, telling viewers: “I am constantly baffled. I just don’t get it, I don’t know why you would think that.”
On Tuesday evening, Evans announced his departure from the Strictly tour to “prioritise my wellbeing.”
“I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and plan to take this time for self-reflection,” he said in a statement.
The incident follows previous controversies during Evans’ time on the main Strictly series, where his professional partner Jones was seen moving his hand from her waist and refusing to high-five him.
The pair had insisted at the time these moments were “an inside joke.”
Jones has since broken her silence on the tour incident, asking people to “show humanity and consideration” and adding: “I will miss you my darling boy.”
Meanwhile, Evans’ brother has also issued a passionate defence of the singer, launching a petition to encourage the media to “fairly” report on his sibling.
In the aftermath of his withdrawal, Evans is reported to have been left in a “bad way” and fearing for the future of his career having stepped back from his BBC Radio Wales duties.
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Speaking to The Mirror, a friend of the star claimed: “At the end of the day, he has been a bit of an oaf and made a stupid mistake, but does he deserve such hatred?
“Yes, using the term ‘spit-roast’ was absolutely wrong, and he realises this. His problem is that he is a joker and he continually wants to play to the crowd.
“Jamie Borthwick is his mate and he was laughing and joking, and Katya plays along with the joke too. Its just schoolboy comedy.
“He is more Jim Davidson than Peter Kay, and if anything, is more guilty of having a terrible sense of humour.”
The friend added: “Talk of his career ending is premature – at the end of the day, his radio show is very popular, and he is very much liked. Everyone hopes he can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”
