Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Wynne Evans Embraces Cold Water Swimming for Mental Wellbeing After BBC Exit
Welsh opera singer and former Strictly Come Dancing star Wynne Evans has disclosed that cold water swimming is his chosen method for managing his mental health in the wake of his departure from the Strictly live tour and his BBC Radio Wales program. The 53-year-old personality shared an image on Instagram showing him immersed in a lake, participating in a cold water swim, accompanied by the caption: “I find cold water swimming helps with my mental health. Please look after each other.” This public revelation marks the first time Evans has addressed his wellbeing since stepping back from his broadcasting and touring commitments earlier in the year following allegations of inappropriate conduct.
Public Support and Wellbeing Focus
Fans swiftly responded with messages of support in the comments section. One commenter expressed, “Hope you are doing well Wynne. Big hugs,” while another playfully remarked, “Brrrr but well done. Doesn’t look like Llansteffan!” This social media post is the first instance the Go Compare advert personality has publicly addressed his mental state since leaving his broadcasting roles and tour engagements earlier this year.
Circumstances Surrounding BBC Departure
Evans’ exit from his BBC roles occurred amidst an ongoing internal investigation by the broadcaster into claims of inappropriate behavior during the Strictly tour. Reports indicate that the performer allegedly made a sexually suggestive remark concerning his Strictly co-star Janette Manrara at the tour’s launch event in January. The BBC subsequently confirmed issuing Evans a formal warning and stated he would take time away to “prioritise his wellbeing.”
Official Statement and Self-Reflection
In an official statement released at the time of his departure, Evans, a father of two, stated: “I’ve agreed with the BBC that I’ll take some time out from my radio show and the Strictly Live tour, as well as my other public commitments, 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.”
Postponed Meeting and Mental Strain
A source reportedly close to the vocalist informed The Sun newspaper that a scheduled meeting with BBC executives to discuss his future employment has been delayed. According to the source, “Wynne was ready to fight, but in recent weeks he has been struggling mentally. The stress of what has transpired and its impact on his reputation has been significantly weighing on his mind. The decision has been made to postpone the meeting for a couple of weeks to allow Wynne time to compose himself.”
BBC Investigation and Conduct Review
In February, an insider disclosed to the Mirror: “The BBC are keen to thoroughly investigate and ascertain if there are further conduct issues beyond the initial comment. They intend to have a direct conversation with Wynne to discuss his conduct.” The source added, “The meeting is presently scheduled for the beginning of next week, but there is an understanding that Wynne is experiencing considerable distress, and his welfare is paramount, so he will be given the necessary time.”
Cold Water Swimming for Mental Health Benefits
Cold water swimming has gained increasing recognition for its positive effects on mental health. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution has acknowledged the activity for its potential to reduce stress, enhance circulation, and induce a natural feeling of euphoria in swimmers. Evans appears to be utilizing this activity as a source of support and coping mechanism during this challenging period in his personal and professional life.