Craig Revel Horwood has come under fire for a harsh alcohol-related jibe at Paul Merson, who is in recovery. The Strictly Come Dancing judge, who has been a star of the BBC One programme since it first aired on our screens, made the comment to Paul Merson following his latest performance on the popular show, this Saturday, September 28, 2024.
After an explosive salsa to Pitbull's Fireball, Paul faced the judges with his professional partner Karen Hauer, when Craig Revel Horwood suggested that alcohol had given him confidence, despite Paul being open about his past struggles with addiction. This prompted the former Arsenal player to quickly retort: " I don't drink." Craig continued: "It was like a comedy dance at a wedding I'm afraid. It was really not good. Those shunts were terrible."
One fan took to Twitter to criticise Craig's lack of research on the contestants, calling his remark to Paul Merson unnecessary. Another questioned: "Did Craig really just say he thought the drinks at the barbecue gave Paul Merson confidence. Tactless in the extreme.", reports Birmingham Live.
Others echoed these sentiments, with one saying: "Oh gosh not really good of Craig to make a drinks joke to Paul Merson." Another added: "Well that was a massive faux pas on Craig's behalf. Clearly doesn't know Paul is an Alcoholic." Yet another chimed in: "Bit of a faux pas to talk about drinks at the barbecue to Paul Merson, someone famously sober after years of excessive drinking." "Craig's comment to Paul Merson was in very poor taste. I hope he gets an apology," another user wrote. Paul has been candid about his issues with heavy drinking and substance abuse in the past, discussing them on the 2019 ITV series Harry's Heroes: The Full English.
In a candid revelation back in 2021, he confessed: "I've been addicted to alcohol and cocaine, but by far the most destructive and the only one I'm still struggling with is gambling. If I want to get drunk or high, I have to put something up my nose or down me. Gambling's already in you, just waiting constantly, talking to you."
In another press chat, Paul Merson candidly opened up about his gambling addiction, another difficult hurdle. Paul explained that gambling has always been the 'most destructive' addiction he's ever experienced and that recovery is no easy feat. "Losing the deposit to the house I was going to buy during the lockdown was heart breaking for me but also for my wife and children," he added.
"That's the thing with addiction, it affects not just the addict but that person's whole eco-system. I truly believe that rather than being a set point in time, addiction recovery is a lifelong journey. I also know how hard it can be to seek help and that's why it's important to have as many easily accessible services as possible available for people to choose from."
The backlash against Revel Horwood's comments
The backlash against Revel Horwood's comment has been swift and widespread, with many viewers taking to social media to express their disappointment. "Craig needs to do his homework & research on the contestants. Unnecessary remark to Paul Merson," wrote one viewer. "That’s a nasty comment from Craig! As Paul is a recovering addict I doubt he’d be having a drink at a BBQ!" said another.
The incident has highlighted the importance of sensitivity when dealing with issues such as addiction. While Revel Horwood may not have intended to cause offense, his comment has undoubtedly caused pain and frustration for Merson and his supporters.
Merson's Journey to Sobriety
Paul Merson is a well-known football pundit and former professional player who has been open about his struggles with addiction. He has spoken candidly about his journey to sobriety, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of recovery. His openness has resonated with many, and he has become a symbol of hope for those battling their own addictions.
His struggles with alcohol and drug addiction are well-documented, and he has spoken candidly about his experiences in the past. In 2019, he appeared on ITV's Harry's Heroes: The Full English, where he shared his journey with viewers. In 2021, Merson opened up about his struggles, saying: "I've been addicted to alcohol and cocaine, but by far the most destructive and the only one I'm still struggling with is gambling. If I want to get drunk or high, I have to put something up my nose or down me. Gambling's already in you, just waiting constantly, talking to you."
He has also spoken about the impact his addiction has had on his family, acknowledging that it affects everyone around him.
A Call for Sensitivity and Understanding
The incident with Revel Horwood's comment serves as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and understanding when dealing with issues such as addiction. It is crucial to remember that addiction is a complex disease, and those in recovery deserve respect and support.
By being mindful of our words and actions, we can create a more supportive and compassionate environment for individuals struggling with addiction. The journey to recovery is often difficult and challenging, and everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and thrive without facing unnecessary judgment or criticism.
