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Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Fresh blow to Wynne Evans as his final BBC show is axed after one series following Strictly scandal
The BBC has cut its last remaining tie with former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Wynne Evans. I can reveal that the continuing controversy surrounding the TV star has seen his six-part travelogue, All at Sea, officially axed after just one season. Advertisement 5 Controversy surrounding Wynne has seen his six-part travelogue, All at Sea, with Joanna Page, officially axed Credit: Instagram 5 The opera singer, who starred in the Go Compare ads, had already been embroiled in 'gropegate' during last year's Strictly Credit: BBC 5 Wynne, pictured here with Katya, was dropped from the Strictly Live Tour after making what seemed to be a crude remark at the launch event Credit: PA The debut series of the show — which he hosted with his pal, Gavin & Stacey star Joanna Page — saw them travel up and down the coastline of their Welsh homeland. It was paused earlier this year when Wynne was dropped from the Strictly Live Tour after making what seemed to be a crude remark at the launch event. The opera singer, who starred in the Go Compare ads, had already been embroiled in 'gropegate' during last year's show, when he appeared to place an unsolicited hand on the stomach of his dance partner Katya Jones on live TV. The pair said it was an inside joke and stressed they were great friends. Advertisement All at Sea aired on BBC One in February and March and saw Wynne and Joanna setting sail for Barry Island, Swansea, Tenby and St Davids. Of the travel show's axing, an insider said: 'Once the first series was slapped on ice, there was always a huge question mark hanging over the prospect of a second outing. "Only now has the BBC publicly confirmed it won't be returning. "It means that Wynne has no TV show or radio show with the Beeb, and effectively marks the end of their relationship.' Advertisement Wynne recently parted company with BBC Wales, where he was a DJ. He launched his own online radio show earlier this month, and just over 40,000 tuned in for its first broadcast. Watch Wynne Evans' FULL apology video backstage at Strictly after they ordered him to cut it short All six episodes of All at Sea are still available to watch on BBC iPlayer. But a spokeswoman for the BBC confirmed: 'There are no plans for a second series.' Advertisement Boxing role no low blow 5 Stephen Graham says wife Hannah was worried by the title of his new Disney+ boxing drama A Thousand Blows, according to the star Credit: Robert Viglasky/Disney He got beefed up to star as boxer Sugar Goodson in Disney+ historical drama A Thousand Blows – but Stephen Graham says his wife wasn't thrilled when she was first told of his new role. Hannah Walters, who appeared alongside Stephen in 2021 film Boiling Point, was worried about what type of filming he was doing after hearing the series' title. Speaking to Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes and Will Arnett on their SmartLess podcast, he said: 'My missus went, as soon as they said, A Thousand Blows, 'Sounds a bit like a top shelf, that . . . '' Advertisement Stephen, who starred in his Netflix series Adolescence earlier this year, added: 'I trained – I did a lot of boxing, ate a s***load of protein, and it was great – I had six months when I got into the best shape I've ever been in. "To do all that training at 51, that's crazy.' The Streets' Mike Skinner is among musicians who will read a CBeebies Bedtime Story. Loyle Carner, The Last Dinner Party singer Abigail Morris and Sampha will also host the popular show, which airs weekdays at 6.50pm. Advertisement Friday will see surprise stars reading from Glastonbury. Damian on dino duties 5 Damian Lewis is lending his voice to a new immersive dinosaur experience bringing prehistoric beasts to life Wolf Hall star Damian Lewis will narrate an immersive dinosaur experience where you can get up close and personal with the prehistoric creatures. Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs, at the Lightroom venue in London's King's Cross, is being put on in collaboration with Apple TV+ from July 9. Advertisement The actor will lend his captivating voice to bring alive the excitement, drama and gravity of one of the most fascinating times in our Earth's history. With music from Hans Zimmer, it promises to bring visitors closer than ever to what it would have been like to see dinosaurs in real life. Damian said of the attraction: 'It's an amazing immersive space to transport people back in time.' Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.
Edinburgh Live
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
BBC Strictly Come Dancing 'signs up' Gladiators star for 2025 series
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Gladiators star Nitro, real name Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, has been 'signed up' to join the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing. The 36-year-old former Olympic sprinter previously appeared on the BBC show's 2024 Christmas special, where he was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu, 33. The duo wowed the judges and were one of the highest scoring couples, earning an impressive 37 points for their Street/Commercial performance. Strictly bosses were so impressed that they're now hoping to secure him for a full season of the popular dance contest, which will be in its 23rd season this year. It is hoped that he will be able to juggle his commitments with Gladiators, which traditionally films across the summer. (Image: Getty Images) Strictly usually begins airing in August each year, but contestants are secured weeks in advance and immediately begin training to gain confidence on the dance floor ahead of the live shows. An insider told The Sun: "Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work," reports the Mirror, which has reached out to the BBC and Harry's representatives for comment. The source added: "He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in spandex and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing." The insider also suggested that they hoped Nitro's participation could draw a new demographic of fans to Strictly, as the show's bosses aim to capitalise on the family-friendly success of Gladiators. (Image: PA) Strictly has been mired in controversy and scandal in recent years following allegations of abuse by professional dancers and star contestants behaving inappropriately. Last year, Go Compare singer Wynne Evans caused a stir when he was seen touching dancer Katya Jones. He later sparked controversy during the 2025 Strictly Live Tour when inappropriate comments he made off-camera were leaked. Fellow 2024 contestant Jamie Borthwick found himself at the centre of a scandal this month after it emerged he used an offensive term to describe the people of Blackpool during the BBC show's filming there. (Image: BBC Studios/Guy Levy) A shadow was cast over Strictly the previous year when actress Amanda Abbington accused professional dancer Giovanni Pernice of abuse. A BBC investigation was launched while Giovanni left the show, maintaining his innocence. Fellow professional dancer Graziano Di Prima confessed to accidentally kicking celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals, leading to his departure from the BBC show. Strictly Come Dancing is likely to resume this year, with the return of judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood. However, it is uncertain if Craig will continue beyond this season, as he previously expressed his intention to leave the show after turning 60. This milestone birthday has now passed, sparking concerns among fans that he may retire at the end of the upcoming season. Nevertheless, in an interview with The Mirror last year, Craig seemed to reconsider his decision, stating: "I have no intention of quitting because it's a fantastic Saturday job that I intend to do into my 80s, as long as I'm still compos mentis, darling! and if I haven't been cancelled before then!". Strictly Come Dancing is available on BBC iPlayer
Metro
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Jamie Borthwick suspended from EastEnders after using disabled slur
EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick has been suspended from the BBC soap, on which he plays Jay Brown, after being captured using a disabled slur. The 2024 Strictly Come Dancing star is believed to have made the offensive remark while in Blackpool last November. Jamie was recorded on a mobile phone on the set of Strictly as they filmed in the iconic Tower Ballroom. Describing the people of seaside town Blackpool, he used the term 'm********s', which was condemned by Blackpool Council's Tory group leader Paul Galley, who called it a 'shocking' and 'horrible' comment. Consequently, the BBC issued a statement to The Sun on Sunday: 'This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC. Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. 'We have robust processes in place for this.' As per the publication, Jamie, who joined EastEnders in 2006, has now been suspended from the BBC. Jamie also issued an apology, saying: 'I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly. 'I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. 'It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely. 'Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.' He continued: 'When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment. 'Again, that is no excuse. But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views or who I am. 'I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself. 'The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers, and cast members. 'I know they will be again for this year's show and those in years to come.' He concluded with: 'I am truly sorry.' The footage he refers to also featured Wynne Evans, with the pair having been informed they had been selected for the nationwide Strictly Live Tour. 'Blackpool, by the way. Absolute m********s,' Jamie is thought to have said at the time. After Jamie used the slur, The Sun's video has Wynne saying, 'Oh my God.' It also attracted backlash from disability campaigners and residents of Blackpool. Warren Kirwan, Media Manager at disability equality charity Scope, said: 'Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable. 'It's not just ignorant and hurtful to disabled people; it has wider consequences. 'Negative attitudes hold disabled people back in all areas of life, from getting a job to shopping on the high street. 'Mr Borthwick needs to reflect on what he said, educate himself, and do better. 'We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people's lives.' This is not the first time Jamie has been caught up in a Strictly-related controversy. In April, he and Wynne made headlines after a video emerged of them larking around with a sex toy backstage at the tour in Birmingham, which saw them chastised by bosses. This happened prior to opera singer Wynne being removed from the tour in January due to inappropriate behaviour. He was accused of making sexual comments around colleagues, for which he apologised. The GoCompare frontman was also filmed making a 'spit-roast' jibe during a photo session, which was believed to have referred to host Janette Manrara. More Trending Defending himself last month in his first interview since the drama began, Wynne insisted that he was actually addressing Jamie, whom they called 'spit-roast boy' among the cast, 'because he could contort his legs over his head like a spit-roast chicken.' 'I would be the first to apologise if I had used it in the double meaning of that word,' he told The Sun. However, in the latest development, Wynne was informed that his BBC Radio Wales contract would not be renewed after an investigation, which he said 'breaks [his] heart'. EastEnders has been contacted for comment. If you've got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@ – we'd love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. View More » MORE: Strictly star Nick Knowles, 62, marries Katie Dadzie, 34, in lavish six-figure ceremony MORE: Celebrity Race Across the World 'signs up' beloved Strictly duo MORE: Strictly star says show left her in more pain than childbirth
Metro
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Wynne Evans 'gutted' as he confirms BBC axe: 'It breaks my heart'
Wynne Evans has confirmed he has been axed by the BBC. The former GoCompare opera singer and Strictly Come Dancing star has been dropped from his one-year rolling BBC Radio contract following a four-month investigation. He confirmed in an Instagram statement: 'It breaks my heart to say the BBC has decided not to renew my contract so I won't be returning to my radio show. 'I'm gutted. That show wasn't just work — it was home. It was us. 'We laughed, we cried, we sang like nobody was listening. And somehow, through the airwaves, we became a family.' Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. He was axed from the Strictly Live Tour earlier this year due to comments made involving Janette Manrara. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Wynne, 53, whose professional partner was Katya Jones, later retreated from the spotlight, having apologised for his 'unacceptable' quip that insinuated a 'spit roast' with married tour host Janette. He has also faced several other reports of inappropriate comments made off-camera in recent months. More Trending Now, he has confirmed he won't be returning to his radio show on BBC Wales, while the singer also thanked his 'beloved Wynners' for their support. He said: 'From the very depths of my heart — thank you. These past few months, your love has been the light in my darkest days. 'Every message, every word of encouragement, every moment you stood by me has carried me through more than you could ever know.' Wynne also announced plans for The Wynne Evans Show to return independently online. This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates. If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. For more stories like this, check our entertainment page. Follow Entertainment on Twitter and Facebook for the latest celeb and entertainment updates. You can now also get articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here. MORE: 11 years on, I'm still mourning comedy legend Rik Mayall MORE: BBC confirms huge Casualty news and it's the end of an era MORE: Interior Design Masters fans fume after favourite loses to 'ugly' design in shock finale
Metro
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Wynne Evans insists he's 'not a bad guy' in interview after Strictly sex scandal
Wynne Evans has spoken out in his first interview after becoming embroiled in a Strictly Come Dancing scandal. The opera singer's reputation took a beating earlier this year when he was axed from the Strictly Live Tour due to comments made involving Janette Manrara. Wynne, whose professional partner was Katya Jones, later retreated from the spotlight, having apologised for his 'unacceptable' quip that insinuated a 'spit roast' with married tour host Janette. When he was removed from the bill, having already done several performances, a spokesperson from the BBC said: 'We have made it very clear to Wynne that we do not tolerate such behaviour on the tour. 'We were not previously aware of the remark and did not receive any complaints.' Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. Wynne, who has faced several other reports of inappropriate comments made off-camera in recent months, has now spoken to The Sun about the fallout. The Go Compare frontman – who was also caught on camera laughing after gifting Strictly co-star Jamie Borthwick a sex toy – told the publication that he is 'not a bad guy'. He also states that he is 'not a misogynist', explaining that 'spit-roast boy' was a nickname given to EastEnders actor Jamie, insisting that the quip was a prank that 'backfired'. 'It's been heartbreaking,' he said of the aftermath. ''Spit-roast boy' was a nickname we all gave Jamie Borthwick because he could contort his legs over his head like a spit-roast chicken. 'I would be the first to apologise if I had used it in the double meaning of that word. 'But it absolutely wasn't meant sexually – and the fact I used 'boy,' alright, it's nuanced, but it shows I was talking to Jamie, NOT Janette.' Wynne was informed of the 'offensive' language he used when footage came to light two weeks later. He said his natural reaction was to declare he was 'so sorry', which he alleges was interpreted as a 'formal apology'. 'When I read the apology within the context of the story as it had been written, I was absolutely horrified,' he added. 'And I was embarrassed, and I was ashamed of myself. Because the apology always makes it look worse. It validates the story.' The incident, which occurred during a photo session at Birmingham Arena, was not the first time Wynne raised eyebrows with his comments, as, while he was on Strictly in late 2024, fans noticed an uncomfortable moment in which Katya removed his hand from her waist before refusing to high-five him. He now claims this was a 'body language experiment' proposed by Russian pro Katya, to which he 'naively agreed'. The TV personality says Katya told him: 'Why don't we create our own body language experiment? Put your hand on my waist; I'll move it back, and let's see if people notice. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video 'So we did it, we laughed, we went downstairs to make-up, and my phone explodes, and I look at it… and let me tell you, the body language experiment worked.' The pair later posted a video on Instagram apologising, which Wynne believes only amplified the situation and was the 'catalyst that started everything'. Also in the interview, Wynne acknowledges that the sex toy gift was 'unprofessional', saying he'd be happy to attend 'any language and behavioural course that the BBC want to send [him] on.' Wynne has received supportive messages from several members of the Strictly 2024 cast and the pro dancers, with Janette herself texting him to say: 'Look after yourself and be strong.' But while he 'understands' matters must be investigated by the BBC, especially given the recent bullying rows engulfing Strictly and the sacking of Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, he admits he was transported back to a place of 'not wanting to be alive' in the wake of his axing. Wynne, who previously suffered from depression, says he is 'disappointed' in the BBC's attitude towards him, given that he has spoken openly about his mental health struggles. 'But I am feeling a lot stronger now. I'm so grateful for all the support I've had, and I am just desperate to get back to doing the thing I love – my BBC Radio Wales show.' View More » The BBC has been contacted for comment. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Strictly star shares wholesome update after being targeted by armed robbers MORE: Strictly star 'suing producers over alleged medical negligence after agonising injury' MORE: Chris McCausland says Scope Awards show how disabled community 'really are capable of so much more than others might think'
