Craig Revel Horwood faced backlash for an inappropriate comment about alcohol made during a conversation with Paul Merson. Critics deemed the remark ill-judged, particularly given Merson’s public struggles with addiction. Revel Horwood’s comment has sparked discussions about sensitivity and awareness regarding such issues, highlighting the impact of words in public forums.
During Saturday night’s show, judge Craig Revel Horwood, 59, gave candid feedback to former footballer Paul Merson, 56, after his Salsa performance to Pitbull’s “Fireball” with partner Karen Hauer. In the routine, Paul was depicted cooking at a BBQ with a drink in hand before he set down the glass to begin dancing.
He received a disappointing score of 15 points out of 40. Craig remarked that it looked as if Paul’s “feet were glued to the floor” and that Karen merely “danced around” him. The judge added, “It was like a comedy dance at a wedding, I’m afraid. It was really not good. Those shunts were terrible.”
Craig then commented on the props at the beginning of the performance, saying, “Obviously the drinks at the BBQ gave you the confidence to do that.” This prompted an awkward moment when Paul looked at his feet and mumbled, “I don’t drink,” highlighting his status as a recovering alcoholic.
Viewers quickly reacted on X, calling for accountability. Comments included: “#Strictly please can you inform Craig Revel Horwood that Paul Merson is a recovering alcoholic. It was an appalling comment to him. He needs to apologise,” and “Will Craig be made to apologise for comments to Paul Merson? Totally out of order!”
Responses to Craig Revel Horwood’s comments continued on social media, with users expressing their disapproval. One user tweeted, “@bbcstrictly Howay man Craig, mentioning drink to an ex-alcoholic is a bit tactless if I’m honest! Well done Paul Merson @PaulMerse by the way! Keep on entertaining!”
Another added, “Really poor comments and choice of words from Craig tonight to Paul Merson. Fancy saying the drink obviously gave you some confidence to a recovering alcoholic. #pleasedobetter #watchyourwords.” A third comment read, “@bbcstrictly Craig’s comments to Paul Merson about drinks at the BBQ? Little bit crass.”
Before the show, Paul reflected on his recovery, stating, “Being a recovering alcoholic and everything, I just want to give people watching this show at home who have addictions the message that you can go and do something because addiction takes you away from everything.”
