Former Arsenal footballer Paul Merson has acknowledged that he “couldn’t do better” after his elimination from Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday night. The 56-year-old opened up about his experience on the BBC dancing show’s companion programme, It Takes Two, on Monday. Merson expressed his pride in his performances but accepted being the fourth contestant to leave the 20th-anniversary series.
Merson and his professional partner Karen Hauer were ousted after receiving the lowest score for their samba routine to Car Wash by R&B group Rose Royce, earning just 19 points from the judges. Reflecting on his time on the show, the former England midfielder stated, “I wouldn’t know if that was hard or not. I’m alright, I’m very proud, proud of Karen as well. I (did) as best as I… couldn’t do any better, it’s not like I’m sitting at home today thinking, ‘if I had just done better’ – I couldn’t.”
Asked about their elimination and dance-off performance, Hauer pinpointed issues with bounce action and timing behind the body rhythms in their samba. She highlighted the entertainment value they brought to the lively dance but admitted the difficulty they faced on the dance floor. Merson jokingly mentioned his desire to give Judge Craig Revel Horwood some football training, emphasizing the challenge of transitioning to dancing with limited experience in the art.
The former footballer also shared personal insights into his motivation to join Strictly Come Dancing, citing his mother’s influence and his aim to raise awareness about addiction issues. He stressed the significance of addressing addiction struggles and the transformative power of overcoming destructive habits. Merson conveyed his respect for dancers and the newfound appreciation he gained for the skill and artistry involved in dance.
Reflecting on the support he received and the impact of his journey on the show, Merson expressed gratitude towards Hauer for her role and support. The remaining couples on Strictly Come Dancing will partake in a Halloween special, with the results show scheduled for Sunday. As Merson exits the competition, he leaves a legacy of resilience, personal growth, and a platform for raising awareness about important social issues.
The show must go on for the remaining contestants as they prepare for the challenges and excitement of the upcoming episodes. Strictly Come Dancing continues to captivate audiences with its blend of entertainment, skill, and heartfelt stories, showcasing the transformative power of dance and the human spirit.