Luke Evans is singing on Strictly Come Dancing tonight, and he became a superstar when he immersed himself in the role of Gaston in the 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast adaptation. The film – which also starred Dan Stevens and Emma Watson in the title roles – smashed the box office and became an instant classic to add to Disney’s collection. But while most of the other stars didn’t actually have voice training, Luke Evans was the exception, because he actually started out in musical theatre before his Hollywood acting career boomed.
The Welsh actor was working steadily in theatre long before he made the transition to the screen.
He even had major parts in the Boy George biopic Taboo and puppet musical comedy Avenue Q.
So it wasn’t until Evans turned his hand to Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit trilogy and the Fast & Furious movies that fans began to forget the star’s singing and dancing background.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if the actor’s success in Beauty and the Beast prompted him to sign on to more movie musicals, as his rendition of Gaston was truly spectacular.
Evans has made a number of appearances on the Jonathan Ross Show, and at least two have involved him singing his heart out for fun.
During one such occasion, the presenter coaxed his guest into performing alongside fellow musical star Sheridan Smith.
It was revealed the pair are both deep Dolly Parton fans, and they belted out a verse and chorus from Islands in the Stream as the country icon herself and Kenny Rogers.
Another saw Evans take to the ITV sofa alongside fellow actor Hugh Jackman, who is also often musically inclined.
The group, alongside Taron Egerton, ended up in a Gaston sing-off, but despite Jackman’s valiant efforts singing the number, it was clear Evans was the winner of the session.
Evans shed further light on his history in another chat with the show’s host, explaining where his true love lies.
Ross asked his guest about his start in musical theatre, and why he took that avenue when his acting takes centre-stage now.
“Yeah I mean I love singing, that’s the thing I love the most, is singing,” Evans answered.
Fans continue to be shocked at the actor’s serious skills.
One person was bowled over by Evans’ prowess during the Gaston sing-off on Jonathan Ross, merely commenting: “Luke Evans can sing…”
Another gushed over the star’s beautiful deep tones.
Tonight’s show on Strictly is sure to be another belter.
Strictly Come Dancing the Results Show airs tonight at 7.20pm on BBC One.
