Starring Strictly in Wynne Evans’ hand moment, summoned by Women’s Aid

Strictly Come Dancing’s Wynne Evans’ controversial hand-holding moment has been criticized by Women’s Aid.

During last weekend’s (October 12) live episode of the BBC show, viewers noticed dancer Katya Jones removing celebrity partner Wynne’s hand from her waist during a break between dances.

A clip in which Katya appeared to ignore Wynne’s attempt at a high-five also attracted attention.

The pair later posted on social media to say they were “just messing around” and that it was a “very silly inside joke”. Katya also said that “the idea that it made me feel uncomfortable or offended in any way is complete nonsense” .

Wynne then said he was “absolutely heartbroken” by the media attention it has attracted, while Katya called for an “end” to the controversy.

However, Women’s Aid has released a statement condemning the incident, saying (via Metro): “Inappropriate behavior towards women is no laughing matter.

“With an epidemic of misogyny and violence against women and girls in Britain, we need a media culture where women feel safe to speak up, where sexually inappropriate behavior is not trivialized or made fun of.

“It is important that we challenge inappropriate ‘jokes’ so that we do not continue to normalize toxic attitudes that cultivate these forms of gender-based abuse.”

During an appearance on Strictly – It Takes Two earlier this week, Wynne admitted he could see how people had ‘misinterpreted’ his actions.

Katya also defended her dance partner, saying: “Can I please address something that makes me feel like our performance is being overshadowed for no reason. I honestly can’t bear to sit here and watch this man being portrayed as someone he is not.

“In fact, it couldn’t be further from the truth. So I have to make it absolutely clear that this whole hand and high five incident on Saturday night was an inside joke between Wynne and me.

“Was it a bad joke? Yes. Was it a bad joke? Yes.”

Come strictly dance airs on Saturdays on BBC One, while it is a spin-off Strictly speaking: it takes two airs weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, organizations including Refuge And Women’s Aid can provide support and information. The 24-hour, toll-free phone National Domestic Violence Helpline is 0808 2000 247. The USA National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text LOVEIS to 22522.

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