Paul Gascoigne reveals unfiltered insights on tumultuous ‘black and blue’ night with ex-wife amid marriage struggles
Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne has opened up about a troubling incident from his past involving his ex-wife, Sheryl. This revelation forms part of his upcoming book, which is set to be released soon.
Violent Incident in 1996
The tumultuous night in question transpired in 1996 at the Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire. Gascoigne admitted to physically assaulting Sheryl, leaving her “black and blue.” This violent episode occurred just three months after their wedding, highlighting the severe issues within their marriage.
Details of the Assault
According to Gascoigne, the confrontation escalated after a trivial argument in the hotel restaurant. After Sheryl retreated to their room, Gazza followed her. He later recounted that he instinctively pushed her, causing her to fall and injure her hand. She left the hotel with her arm in a sling, and the incident was widely covered in the media.
- Date of Incident: October 1996
- Location: Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire
- Media Coverage: Daily Mirror featured the headline “GAZZA BEATS SHERYL BLACK AND BLUE”
Aftermath and Divorce
The couple was married for just one year before Sheryl sought a divorce, which finalized in 1999. Following the separation, Gascoigne reportedly paid Sheryl a settlement of £700,000 along with monthly maintenance payments of £10,000. Despite their turbulent marriage, Sheryl stayed connected with Gascoigne in the years that followed, even supporting him during his mental health struggles in 2008.
Reflections on Marriage
Gascoigne recognizes that the relationship was a mistake. He recalls feeling trapped during their wedding ceremony, which took place in July 1996 at Hanbury Manor in Hertfordshire. The lavish event cost £150,000, financed through magazine rights, but should have highlighted the tensions instead of masking them.
Gascoigne expressed regret for the pain he inflicted on Sheryl, acknowledging that he has lived with a “dark shadow” because of his actions. The stigma was compounded as opposing football fans would chant derogatory phrases about his past.
As Gascoigne prepares to release his book, he hopes to shed light on his experiences and the lessons learned from his turbulent past. The book, titled “Paul Gascoigne Eight,” will be available on October 23rd.
