In a raw and heartbreaking revelation that’s sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, beloved opera singer and former Strictly Come Dancing star Wynne Evans has admitted to attempting suicide amid the brutal backlash from scandals that torpedoed his career. The 53-year-old, famous for his booming GoCompare ads and infectious charisma, broke down on Good Morning Britain, confessing how the glittering lights of the BBC dancefloor turned into a personal hell that left him hospitalized and fighting for his life.

“I went on a dancing show and ended up trying to take my own life,” Wynne told hosts Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid, his voice cracking with emotion. “I did end up in hospital – somebody found me, rang an ambulance, and luckily for me, I’m here today.” The admission, delivered with unflinching honesty, paints a devastating picture of the toll fame’s unforgiving spotlight can exact, especially when scandals erupt like wildfires.

Wynne’s Strictly journey, which kicked off with high hopes in the show’s 20th anniversary series last year, was meant to be a triumphant pivot from insurance jingles to the Strictly ballroom. Paired with the elegant pro dancer Katya Jones, the Welsh powerhouse entered as the ultimate underdog – a larger-than-life tenor with zero dance experience but buckets of enthusiasm. Fans adored his exuberant performances, from a campy paso doble to a heartfelt waltz that had viewers wiping away tears. He even charmed the judges, earning rare praise from the notoriously tough Craig Revel Horwood for his “operatic flair.”

But beneath the sequins and smiles, cracks began to show almost immediately. Just weeks into the competition, a live broadcast clip captured Katya subtly moving Wynne’s hand from her waist during a post-dance chat, followed by her declining a high-five. The moment, innocuous to some but explosive in the court of public opinion, ignited accusations of inappropriate behavior. Social media erupted with hashtags like #StrictlyMisconduct, and tabloids dissected every frame. “It does look creepy, and I apologise for that,” Wynne reflected on GMB, explaining it as a lighthearted “body language experiment” agreed upon with Katya. “Of course it looked weird on TV. But we were just having fun – or so I thought.”

The incident, which Wynne now calls one of his “totally stupid” hijinks, was just the opening act in a cascade of controversies that would unravel his world. As the series progressed, whispers of behind-the-scenes tension grew louder. Wynne, known for his cheeky banter and larger-than-life persona, struggled to navigate the show’s high-stakes environment. “I wish I’d had a better insight into it before I went into it,” he admitted, his eyes glistening. “It’s a pressure cooker – one wrong move, and you’re toast.”

The real detonator came post-elimination, during the launch of the Strictly live arena tour. In a moment of what Wynne later described as misguided camaraderie, he reportedly used the phrase “spit roast” – a crude term with explicit sexual connotations – as a nickname for fellow performer Jamie Borthwick, the EastEnders star who’d become a fast friend. The offhand remark, overheard and swiftly leaked, unleashed a torrent of outrage. Sponsors panicked, the BBC axed him from the tour, and even his iconic GoCompare role – the gig that made him a household name – vanished overnight. “I’ve paid the ultimate price in terms of my career,” Wynne said, his voice heavy with regret. “I’m learning from my mistakes but not letting them define me for the rest of my life.”

The fallout was swift and savage. Online trolls branded him a “predator” and “has-been,” while former fans turned their backs. Isolated and overwhelmed, Wynne spiraled into despair. Friends and family watched helplessly as the once-jovial singer withdrew, the weight of public shaming crushing his spirit. It culminated in a harrowing night last year when, in a moment of utter desperation, he attempted to end it all. A loved one discovered him in time, dialing for help that saved his life. Rushed to hospital, Wynne faced not just physical recovery but a profound reckoning with his mental health.

Today, speaking out for the first time in such stark terms, Wynne is reclaiming his narrative. “I’m not a bad guy,” he insisted, echoing a sentiment from earlier interviews. “I’ve made mistakes, but who hasn’t? The scrutiny… it traps you. You feel like there’s no way out.” His candor has drawn praise from mental health advocates, who hail it as a vital step in destigmatizing suicide and the hidden struggles of celebrities. “It’s given me a greater understanding of my own mental health and where I am in my life,” he added. “And how I can help other people who don’t want to talk about it.”

The BBC, responding to Wynne’s revelations, issued a statement underscoring their duty of care. “We provided comprehensive support for Wynne, including wellbeing professionals and direct access to a designated contact at the BBC who was able to assist him at any time,” Susanna Reid read aloud on air. “Continued support has been offered since.” Yet Wynne’s story raises uncomfortable questions about the Corporation’s handling of scandals amid its own Strictly turmoil – from Graziano Di Prima’s sacking over misconduct allegations to Giovanni Pernice’s departure. Is the show, once a beacon of escapist joy, now a minefield for its stars?

Wynne’s path to healing hasn’t been easy. Post-hospital, he sought therapy, leaned on his inner circle, and channeled his energy into new ventures. In June, he launched “The Wynne Evans Show,” a live weekday internet radio broadcast that’s become a haven for fans craving his warmth and wit. “Singing again saved me,” he shared. “That first note after everything – it felt like coming home.” He’s also mended fences with Katya, who sent a supportive message after his GMB appearance, and Jamie Borthwick, with whom he shares laughs over their shared ordeal.

Public reaction has been a mixed bag. While some X (formerly Twitter) users rally with #SupportWynne and calls for forgiveness, others remain unforgiving, dredging up old clips as “proof” of wrongdoing. One viral post from last June captured Wynne sobbing on This Morning, confessing he’d confided suicidal thoughts to his girlfriend amid the chaos. “Seeing that broke my heart,” a fan tweeted recently. “We build them up to tear them down – it’s toxic.” Mental health charities like Samaritans have reported a spike in calls referencing celebrity breakdowns, urging viewers: If you’re struggling, reach out. You’re not alone.

As Strictly’s new season dazzles on screens – free, for now, of last year’s shadows – Wynne’s confession serves as a stark reminder of the human cost behind the glamour. The opera star, ever the survivor, ends on a note of quiet defiance. “I’m here today,” he said, a small smile breaking through. “And that’s a win.”

For Wynne Evans, the dance may have ended in scandal, but his song goes on – louder, wiser, and unapologetically alive.