Paul Gascoigne’s Emotional GMB Interview on Personal Struggles Stuns Viewers with Repeated Breakdowns
Paul Gascoigne’s Heartfelt GMB Interview Reveals Ongoing Alcohol Struggle
Former England and Tottenham star Paul Gascoigne, 58, moved viewers to tears during an emotional appearance on Good Morning Britain while promoting his new memoir, Eight. The football legend, who has battled alcoholism and mental health issues since retiring over two decades ago, bravely admitted he still struggles with alcohol, revealing he occasionally relapses despite efforts to stay sober.
A Lifelong Battle
Gascoigne, known as “Gazza,” shared candidly that while he can abstain for months, he sometimes experiences “two-day blips” where he drinks, leading to regret. “I don’t like myself for a few days afterward,” he said. “I’ve had to rejoin AA meetings. It wasn’t until I first went there that I realized I was an alcoholic.”
[Image: Gazza appearing emotional during his GMB interview]
Viewers React
Fans expressed heartbreak over his raw vulnerability on air. One viewer tweeted, “This interview with Gazza on GMB is terrible. He’s been on the verge of breaking down… Hope he’ll be ok. He’s a legend.” Others praised hosts Susanna Reid and Richard Madeley for handling the interview with empathy.
From Pitch Glory to Personal Demons
Gazza’s career peaked in the 1990s, leading England to World Cup and Euros semifinals. However, his addiction struggles overshadowed his talent. He admitted even during his playing days, alcohol was a coping mechanism. “Football was my escape,” he said, reflecting on how the sport helped him process trauma.
[Image: Young Gascoigne in his England jersey during the 1990s]
Childhood Trauma Resurfaced
The interview took a poignant turn as Gascoigne revisited a haunting childhood experience. At age 10, his friend’s 8-year-old brother died in his arms after a car accident. “He ran in front of us… I picked him up out of the coffin. It was horrific,” he recalled, linking the trauma to lifelong anxiety and OCD. Football became his refuge: “Those 90 minutes on the pitch were my escape.”
Phone Hacking Scandal’s Toll
Gascoigne also addressed the 2015 phone hacking scandal, where tabloids exploited his private life. The invasion destroyed his relationship with his parents for months. “I fell out with them… [The hackers] made it look like my mum and dad were selling stories. It destroyed us,” he said, admitting the stress led him to drugs. His father ultimately had him hospitalized, a decision Gascoigne credits with saving his life.
A Message of Hope
Despite his struggles, Gascoigne emphasized writing Eight to help others. “It’s not about football—it’s about what I put myself through,” he said. Drawing an analogy, he added, “If you sit in the barbers long enough, you’ll get a haircut. But I want people to know recovery is possible.”
[Image: Cover of Gascoigne’s memoir Eight]
Legacy of Resilience
Fans continue to rally behind the football icon, whose honesty has shone a light on addiction’s complexities. As Gascoigne navigates his journey, his story stands as a reminder of resilience—and the enduring weight of fame’s darker side.
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