Viewers Express Fears For England Legend After ‘Heartbreaking’ Interview
Viewers across the UK have voiced deep concern for England and Tottenham Hotspur icon Paul Gascoigne following his emotional appearance on Good Morning Britain. The 58-year-old, affectionately known as Gazza, broke down in tears while discussing his decades-long battle with alcohol addiction and mental health challenges — struggles that have followed him since hanging up his boots more than 20 years ago.
Gascoigne, one of the most gifted and charismatic footballers Britain has ever produced, joined presenters Susanna Reid and Richard Madeley on Monday morning to promote his new autobiography, Eight. The book offers a raw and deeply personal account of his ongoing fight for sobriety, as well as reflections on his life, fame, and the cost of being a footballing hero. Speaking with remarkable honesty, Gazza admitted that despite his efforts to stay sober, he still has occasional lapses.
“I can go months and months without bothering and then have a two-day blip,” Gascoigne confessed during the ten-minute interview. “And then I feel the consequences. I don’t like myself for a few days. I just get miserable and then have to go to an AA meeting and just listen. It wasn’t until I first went to AA meetings that I realised I was an alcoholic.”
Gascoigne’s vulnerability struck a chord with viewers, many of whom took to social media to express both admiration for his bravery and worry for his wellbeing. Whenever the former England star appears on television, fans are reminded not only of his brilliance on the pitch — from his dazzling runs at Italia ’90 to his unforgettable time at Newcastle, Rangers, and Lazio — but also of the fragility that fame and addiction left behind.
As reported by the Daily Mail, the interview was a mix of heartbreak and humour. At one point, Gascoigne joked about still believing he could play again whenever he watches the current crop of players, adding with a grin that “life’s good at the moment.” Yet, beneath his laughter, there was a visible sadness that resonated deeply with viewers.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“If anybody is asking for help NOW, it’s Gazza on GMB. Someone who knows him, please reach out to him today.”
Another added:
“Actually heartbreaking watching Gazza on GMB. Addiction is a horrible disease.”
Others shared messages of love and support:
“I do hope there are genuine, decent people around Gazza. It’s been clear since the day he stopped playing how much he missed it. Such a shame he didn’t move into coaching or management.”
A fourth viewer commented:
“The most moving interview I’ve ever seen on television. He’s an inspiration to keep fighting — a true lion with a kind heart.”
And another wrote:
“This interview with Gazza has broken my heart. Absolutely incredible. It was handled with empathy and respect. What a man.”
Gascoigne also reflected on his attempts to stay away from alcohol completely, admitting that he had tried to quit cold turkey several times — sometimes successfully for years. When asked if he found it impossible to give up drinking, Gazza offered a poignant analogy:
“Not really. I’ve done five years and four years without it. It’s like anything else — if you sit in the barber’s for long enough, you’re going to get a haircut.”
Despite his lifelong battle with addiction, Gascoigne continues to be one of English football’s most beloved figures. His cheeky sense of humour, emotional openness, and undeniable passion for the game have ensured that he remains etched in the hearts of fans.
While his story is one marked by both triumph and tragedy, Monday’s interview served as a reminder of Gazza’s enduring humanity — a man still fighting, still laughing, and still loved by millions.
For many, his courage in speaking so openly about his struggles makes him not just a football legend, but a symbol of resilience. As fans rally around him once again, there remains one shared hope — that Paul Gascoigne continues to find peace, support, and happiness in the years ahead.