BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans say star is 'so unhappy' and 'doesn't want to be on show'

BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans have suggested that one of the stars on the show is already 'fed up' with the programme and is 'unhappy' about their time on the series

Strictly Come Dancing fans think they've spotted a contestant who's "so unhappy" to be on the show.

After the first episode of the new series, viewers took to social media to suggest that former footballer Paul Merson looked like he "doesn't want to be there".

Paul, who is paired with professional dancer Karen Hauer, performed an American Smooth to the football-themed song Vindaloo on the opening night of the show.

However, fans noticed that he seemed less than thrilled during his interview with hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, and even complained about his costume.

Some viewers also pointed out that he might have been unhappy with the song choice, which is often associated with hooliganism, reports Birmingham Live.

One fan tweeted: "Paul really doesn't want to be there!". While another agreed: "I just said the same thing to my OH - are they blackmailing him to be here or something!"

Despite coming second bottom of the leaderboard, Paul has gained some sympathy from fans. Someone commented: "I love Paul Merson but he is not happy with that score!"

Another fan even vowed to vote for him every week after the "Right! I'm voting for Paul Merson every week now after that 'vindaloo' music stitch up and encourage everyone to do the same."

One viewer tweeted: "When someone agrees to do this show, you should treat them with respect not make them a laughing stock IN THE FIRST WEEK."

Speaking about the outfit he'd been given, it was clear Paul wasn't blown away, laughing to the BBC host, he commented: "That's what we look like. On a cruise ship...on a cruise ship. Look! Seriously! We look like we work on a boat."

Claudia responded enthusiastically: "We are ready to go on that cruise with you. Are you ready? How are you feeling about this dance?"

His response was laid-back: "Oh yeah, alright. Yeah." While appearing on It Takes Two this week, the sports star confessed he's finding the glitz and glamour of Strictly quite hard.

Presenter Fleur East asked if he was enjoying it all, hesitating, replied: "Yeah?"mAs everyone starting laughing, he added: ""You know what? I don't know that's the bit I find really hard, the showbizy bit. "I'm a footballer, put your boot on, you get the job done."

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday on BBC One from 6:15pm.