Who is the Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans and when did he leave Strictly Come Dancing?
Find out what Wynne had to say about being axed from Strictly
OPERA singer Wynne Evans is renowned for his famous Go Compare alter-ego, Gio Compario.
However, he won over a whole new army of fans when he took part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2024.
Born on January 27, 1972, Wynne Evans is best known for his alter-ego in the Go Compare adverts.
However, the star is actually a very talented opera singer who has performed across the UK, including in London's West End.
Wynne's rise to fame on the Go Compare adverts has also see him bag TV roles.
In 2023, he showed off his culinary skills in the kitchen and was crowned the winner of Celebrity MasterChef.
But it was the Go Compare adverts that undoubtedly changed Wynne’s life.
It was reported how he was paid £450,000 for a two-year contract with the company.
Wynne previously said the money he got from Go Compare was "life changing", saying the steady pay packet allowed him to finally clear his debts.
He told : "When I started out as a singer, I lived hand to mouth."
And speaking about his credit card bills, he said: "I didn’t run up a massive debt – about £1,500 – and I managed it properly, but I had it hanging over me for a long time, about ten years.
"I only paid it off when I got my first cheque from Go Compare.
"I’m in a very privileged position where people will pay me to do what I love doing, and playing Gio Compario is the best job I’ve ever had in my life.
"I can’t tell you how much, but it’s changed my life."
Becoming an opera star
The talented opera singer honed his craft at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama before attending the National Opera Studio.
After landing the Go Compare deal, Wynne was cast in the 25th Anniversary production of The Phantom of the Opera, which was performed at the Royal Albert Hall.
Not only has Wynne proved a success on the theatrical stage, he’s also an accomplished recording artist.
In 2011, he released his debut album, A Song in My Heart.
His album shot straight to the number one spot in the UK Classical Charts.
If I can come and do Strictly and last until week nine, then anybody can get out there and dance and have a brilliant time."
Wynne Evans
The flamboyant singer has also made a name for himself presenting on BBC Radio Wales.
Strictly Come Dancing journey
In August 2024, it was announced that Wynne would be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2024.
The opera singer did well, and made it to week nine before being voted off.
On November 17, 2024, he was given his marching orders alongside pro partner Katya Jones.
After his fate was declared by the judges, Wynne said: “It's been wonderful, I’ve got to say. I feel like it's what Strictly is all about.
“If I can come and do Strictly and last until week nine, then anybody can get out there and dance and have a brilliant time.
“Strictly is such a brilliant family, such a precious family, that I want everybody here in this room and at home to look after it for the generations to come because it is a wonderful, wonderful thing.”
His pro partner Katya also praised her partnership with the Go Compare star.
She said: “To be honest with you, the smile hasn't left my face since the first day of our training, since the day we got partnered up.
“You [to Wynne] have made this experience so joyous and so full of laughter for me.
"I'm sure everybody was jealous because you're the kind of guy that everybody wants in their life."