Wynne Evans Reflects on BBC Exit and Personal Regrets

Wynne Evans, the former star of the BBC show *Strictly Come Dancing*, expressed deep regret over comments that led to his dismissal from the network. In a recent interview, the 53-year-old singer acknowledged that he will “regret” using the term “spit roast” to describe colleague Jamie Borthwick, a phrase known for its sexual connotation. His choice of words not only cost him his position on the show but also resulted in the cancellation of his radio program and the non-renewal of his contract with the BBC.

During an appearance on Nick Ferrari’s LBC show, Evans stated, “I said the word so I should have accountability for that.” He emphasized that he had not anticipated the level of scrutiny that followed his remarks. “I wouldn’t blame anybody other than myself. I totally take that as my responsibility and something that I shouldn’t have done, and I will regret that for the rest of my life.”

Evans revealed that the fallout from his comments was devastating. He lost not only his television and radio work but also faced difficulties in his singing career. “At 53, you know, to lose all your singing work, to lose all your television work, to lose your radio show, it’s not an easy thing to have happen to you, but it was my fault,” he added.

Impact on Mental Health

The former *Strictly* contestant reflected on the toll that the situation took on his mental health, admitting that he struggled significantly during the live show filming. “The one thing I wish I’d done is, I wish I’d left when my mental health started to suffer,” he said. Evans revealed that he was in a vulnerable state, dealing with the grief of losing his older brother, Huw, just two days before the incident.

He learned of his dismissal from the BBC through a report in *The Sun* and discovered that his BBC pass had been deactivated shortly after. “I was a grieving mess,” he shared, highlighting the emotional turmoil he experienced during this challenging time.

In his darkest moments, Evans expressed gratitude towards the NHS crisis team, which provided him with round-the-clock support for a month. He credited their intervention with saving his life, emphasizing the importance of mental health care during crises.

Raising Awareness

Evans’ experience sheds light on the broader issue of mental health, particularly in the entertainment industry, where pressure and public scrutiny can be overwhelming. Every 90 minutes in the UK, a life is lost to suicide, a reality that affects all demographics. Men are three times more likely to take their own lives than women, making mental health discussions crucial.

In response to these alarming statistics, organizations such as CALM, Mind, and Samaritans are working to raise awareness and provide support to those in need. Evans’ story serves as a reminder that seeking help is vital and that no one is truly alone in their struggles.

As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, it is essential to break down the barriers that prevent open discussions. Evans’ candid reflections may encourage others to share their experiences and seek support when necessary.