Wynne Evans Biography: James Wynne Evans BEM born 27 January 1972 is a Welsh opera singer, actor, and presenter, best known for portraying Gio Compario—and later himself—in the Go.Compare insurance commercials on UK television. He has also hosted a regular show on BBC Radio Wales and presented programmes on BBC Radio 2.
Wynne Evans Biography
Operatic tenor Wynne Evans was born on January 27, 1972, in Carmarthen, South Wales. He trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the National Opera Studio. Since completing his studies, Evans has performed with many of the UK’s leading opera companies and has appeared at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, notably in the modern opera Anna Nicole, based on the life of Anna Nicole Smith.
Wynne Evans Biography 2025 Details
| Born |
James Wynne Evans
27 January 1972 Carmarthen, Wales
|
|---|---|
| Alma mater | Guildhall School of Music and Drama |
| Occupations |
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| Known for | Go Compare adverts, BBC Radio Wales |
| Spouse |
Tanwen Evans
(m. 1999; div. 2016)
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| Children | 2 |
| Category | Singers Bio |
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About Wynne Evans
James Wynne Evans BEM is a Welsh opera singer, presenter and actor, known for his role as Gio Compario and latterly himself in Go.Compare insurance adverts on UK television. Evans hosted a regular radio programme on BBC Radio Wales and has hosted programmes on BBC Radio 2.
Wynne Evans Personal Life
He also featured in the 25th anniversary production of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall in 2011. Despite his accomplished operatic career, he is perhaps most widely recognized by the general public as the enthusiastic tenor Gio Compario in the popular and quirky Go.Compare insurance adverts on UK television.
Wynne Evans Wiki
- Born: 27 January 1972 (age 53 years), Carmarthen, United Kingdom
- Spouse: Tanwen Evans (m. 1999–2016)
- Children: Taliesin Evans, Ismay Evans
- Siblings: Huw Evans, Mark Evans
- Parents: Elizabeth Evans
- Known for: Go Compare adverts, BBC Radio Wales
Wynne Evans Achievemetns
Evans performed as Ubaldo Piangi in the 25th anniversary production of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, and famously sang “Glory Glory Tottenham Hotspur” at the final match held at White Hart Lane, later reprising the song for the opening of Tottenham’s new stadium. In 2023, he won the eighteenth series of Celebrity MasterChef on BBC One
Early Life and Family Background
Born in Carmarthen, South Wales, Wynne Evans grew up in a household steeped in the arts. His mother, Elizabeth Evans, was a key figure in local theatre, having founded and led the Carmarthen Youth Opera and Carmarthen Lyric Theatre for over two decades. This environment helped nurture Evans’s passion for music and performance from a young age. He later honed his craft at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the National Opera Studio in London.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: James Wynne Evans BEM
- Date of Birth: 27 January 1972
- Place of Birth: Carmarthen, Wales
- Nationality: Welsh
- Spouse: Tanwen Evans (m. 1999; div. 2016)
- Children: Two – Ismay and Taliesin
- Estimated Net Worth: $142.5 million
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Evans began his professional operatic career with roles at renowned institutions such as the Royal Opera House and Welsh National Opera. His performances have spanned a wide repertoire, including notable appearances as Ubaldo Piangi in The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall and the Mayor of Mexia in Anna Nicole. His 2011 debut album A Song in My Heart topped the UK Classical Albums Chart, establishing his success as a recording artist.
Notable Works and Operatic Highlights
- Welsh National Opera: Nemorino (L’elisir d’amore), Cassio (Otello), The Duke (Rigoletto), Rodolfo (La Bohème), Tamino (Die Zauberflöte), Alfredo (La Traviata)
- Royal Opera House, Covent Garden: Vakula (Cherevichki), Mayor of Mexia (Anna Nicole)
- English National Opera: Alfredo, Cavaradossi and Spoletta (Tosca), Second Jew (Salome)
- Opera North: Fenton (Falstaff), Prunier (La Rondine), Paulino (The Secret Marriage)
- Scottish Opera: Tamino (Die Zauberflöte), Italian Tenor (Der Rosenkavalier)
Television and Radio Career
Beyond opera, Evans has become a well-known media personality:
- Go.Compare Commercials: Gained widespread fame as the over-the-top tenor Gio Compario
- BBC Radio Wales: Regular host, engaging listeners with his wit and charm
- Celebrity MasterChef (2023): Winner of the eighteenth series, showcasing his culinary talents
- Strictly Come Dancing (2024): Competed with professional dancer Katya Jones before exiting the competition during the Blackpool week to focus on mental health
Personal Life and Relationships
Evans married violinist Tanwen Evans in 1999, and they share two children, Ismay and Taliesin. The couple divorced in 2016, a time Evans has described as one of the most difficult in his life. He has openly discussed his struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts during this period. Through therapy, medication, and a focus on fitness, he has worked toward recovery. He is now in a relationship with Liz Brookes, an events manager and fitness advocate. Her support has played a key role in his ongoing journey toward better mental and physical health.
Charity Work and Community Involvement
Evans is actively involved in charitable efforts:
- Elizabeth Evans Trust: Trustee of the organization founded in memory of his mother, supporting arts initiatives in Carmarthen
- Ambassador for St John Cymru Wales: Promotes first aid awareness and community health services
His contributions to the arts and public service earned him a place as a Member of the Order of St John and later the British Empire Medal (BEM).
Future Endeavors and Cultural Influence
Wynne Evans continues to diversify his career while advocating for mental health. His recent BBC One travel show Wynne & Joanna: All at Sea, co-hosted with Joanna Page, blends exploration and humor. Looking ahead, Evans aims to balance his professional projects with a focus on personal well-being and cultural impact.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Iconic Moustache: The famed moustache worn as Gio Compario is actually a prosthetic
- Spurs Superfan: A passionate supporter of Tottenham Hotspur, he has performed “Glory Glory Tottenham Hotspur” at key club events
- Fitness Journey: Lost six stone through running and fitness, transforming his lifestyle following his personal challenges
Wynne Evans remains a unique figure in British entertainment, blending operatic excellence with humor, resilience, and heartfelt public engagement.
Wynne Evans Net Worth 2025
With a net worth estimated between $142.5 million, Evans has built a successful career across opera, broadcasting, and advertising. He owns a renovated home in Cardiff, a major upgrade from the dilapidated house he lived in following his divorce—a personal transformation that mirrors his emotional and physical recovery.
FAQs
What is Wynne Evans famous for?
Wynne Evans is widely recognized for his role as Gio Compario in the Go.Compare insurance adverts, but he is also an accomplished opera singer with over two decades of experience performing at major venues like the Royal Opera House and the Royal Albert Hall.
How did Wynne Evans start his opera career?
Evans began his opera career after studying at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the National Opera Studio. He went on to perform with leading UK opera companies, including the Welsh National Opera and the Royal Opera House.
Did Wynne Evans win Celebrity MasterChef?
Yes, Wynne Evans won the 2023 edition of Celebrity MasterChef, impressing judges and viewers with his creativity and culinary skills.
Is Wynne Evans in a relationship?
As of recent updates, Wynne Evans is in a relationship with Liz Brookes, an events manager and fitness enthusiast who has supported him through his personal health and wellness journey.
What radio show does Wynne Evans host?
Wynne Evans presents a regular show on BBC Radio Wales, where he connects with audiences through music, stories, and interviews.
What mental health challenges has Wynne Evans spoken about?
Evans has openly shared his experiences with depression and suicidal thoughts following his divorce in 2016. His recovery involved therapy, medication, and a major lifestyle change focused on physical health.