Strictly's Paul Merson hits back at Craig Revel-Horwood after 'nasty' drinking dig

Strictly: Craig Revel Horwood talks to Paul Merton about drinking at bar

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel-Horwood has sparked uproar with a tactless remark to former footballer Paul Merson.

After his performance with Karen Hauer to Pitbull's Fireball, the judges gave their thoughts on his dance technique, with all of them admitting they thought there seemed to be a lack of it.

Craig quickly stuck the knife in, as he said: "I see the drinks at the bar gave you the confidence to do that," as Paul interjected: "I don't drink."

Craig added: "It was like a comedy dance at a wedding, those shunts were terrible. You are glued to the floor while Karen dances around you" as the room was rocked by boos.

He concluded: "However, I've got to commend you on the lifts."

Craig Revel Horwood was slammed for his (Image: BBC)

Fans rushed to social media to share their fury, as one said: "Craig's comment to Paul Merson was in very poor taste. I hope he gets an apology."

Another added: "Well that was a massive faux pas on Craig's behalf. Clearly doesn't know Paul is an Alcoholic."

A third chipped in: "Bit of a faux pas to talk about drinks at the barbecue to Paul Merson, someone famously sober after years of excessive drinking."

A fourth wrote: "Did Craig really just say he thought the drinks at the bbq gave Paul Merson confidence. Tactless in the extreme."

A fifth agreed: "That’s a nasty comment from Craig! As Paul is a recovering addict I doubt he’d be having a drink at a BBQ!"

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Paul Merson was quick to shut down Craig's comment (Image: BBC) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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Paul has been open about his problems with excessive drinking and substance abuse in the past, opening up on 2019 ITV series Harry's Heroes: The Full English, a 2019 ITV documentary.

He also opened up in 2021, 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."

Strictly's Paul Merson hits back at Craig Revel-Horwood after 'nasty' drinking dig

Strictly's Paul Merson hits back at Craig Revel-Horwood after 'nasty' drinking dig

Strictly's Paul Merson hits back at Craig Revel-Horwood after 'nasty' drinking dig

Strictly's Paul Merson hits back at Craig Revel-Horwood after 'nasty' drinking dig

Strictly's Paul Merson hits back at Craig Revel-Horwood after 'nasty' drinking dig