Football legend Paul Gascoigne moved viewers to tears during a live appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain on Wednesday, June 10, as he opened up about his ongoing recovery and new autobiography.
Gascoigne's Emotional Interview
The 59-year-old former England star, who played for the national side between 1988 and 1998, appeared on the show to discuss his latest book, Paul Gascoigne: Eight - The Real Gazza, with presenters Susanna Reid and Ed Balls. The autobiography chronicles his career and personal struggles, including his battles with addiction.
Susanna Reid noted: "When we last spoke to Gazza on this programme back in October, he was very honest about his ongoing battle with addiction and what happened to him in the past, as well as his love for playing for England. But he says he feels the best he's felt in five years this morning."
Gascoigne then provided a health update, stating: "Everything's going well for us. It's probably the happiest I've been in about five years, definitely, you know." He attributed his improved state to simple pleasures: "Just in general, you know. The weather's changing and [I] went and did a bit of fly-fishing and got deals with the book coming out... Things are looking up. I'm quite happy, you know."
Tears Over Saving Lives
While discussing his book, Gascoigne became visibly emotional when considering its potential impact on others facing similar challenges. "A lot of people have come up [to me] and said they've read it and [it's] saved their life," he revealed, pausing to compose himself. He tearfully added: "If that book can save one person's life, then I've done my job," before lightening the mood with a joke: "I think I should read it myself, you know! Do myself a favour."
He continued: "Every morning, I don't think about tomorrow because that's another day. I just try to keep it in the day, keep it simple. Some days I find it hard." Towards the end of the interview, he grew emotional once more, saying: "If [the book] saves someone's life, then I'm happy." He concluded: "Sorry about that... The last time I cried was in the World Cup! But I'm in a good place."
Viewer Reactions
Following the interview, ITV viewers took to social media to express their support. One person wrote: "Good to see Gazza looking better." Another commented: "Gazza looking well on #GMB," while a third remarked: "Could listen to #Gazza all day long." A fourth fan posted: "Gazza gets emotional as he talks to ITV about alcohol addiction and his new book. Good to hear that he's off the booze and happy," and another admitted to having "tears in my eyes" upon seeing the much-loved footballer looking so well.
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am.
