'IT WASN'T ENOUGH'
Strictly’s James Cracknell apologises to partner Luba as he admits ‘I’m no dancer’ after getting kicked off the show first
STRICTLY Come Dancing star James Cracknell issued a heartfelt apology to partner Luba Mushtuk after becoming the first celeb booted off this year's show.
The Olympic rower, 47, lost the dance-off to former England goalie David James, 49, after his wooden dance moves were panned by judges during the first two weeks of the series.
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The Sun exclusively revealed that James had to calmed down backstage after being axed as he ranted: "I wish I'd never done this show."
Following the outburst the ultra-competitive sports ace issued a sweet statement.
On his Instagram page, he tagged partner Luba, 29, and wrote: "LubaMushtuk & I had fun and our best dance but it wasn’t enough."
He added: "I know I’m no John Travolta," before fans flocked to support him.
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He posted a message in which he admitted his efforts 'weren't enough'One put: "Thought you were fabulous James and it's such a shame that you didn't stay longer as I know you would have improved as you are such a determined man.
"Well done though for stepping out of your comfort zone..most of us stay well within ours!"
James underwent rigorous tests by Strictly before being permitted to compete in the show, after he suffered a brain injury in 2010.
The rowing ace was hit from behind in Arizona by a petrol tanker while cycling during an attempt to cycle, row, run and swim from Los Angeles to New York within 18 days.
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His cycle helmet was "shorn in two" and he suffered a contrecoup injury to the frontal lobes of his brain. His recovery may never be complete and he now suffers from epilepsy and a short temper.
This is said to have come to the fore post-eviction, when The Sun reported he had to be calmed down backstage.
An insider said: “He was livid at being axed. He was saying things like, ‘It was a massive mistake to do Strictly. I’ve been made to look completely stupid.’
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“James is very competitive — he won gold at the Olympics twice — and he felt he wasn’t given a fair chance.
“It was like his first career failure. He was very angry backstage and had to be calmed down.” James has since denied he "threw his toys out of the pram".
Initially, of starring on the show, he said: "The biggest challenge for me is allowing myself to look stupid and fail, letting myself off the leash."
James Cracknell wipes away tears after being blasted for his 'hunched back' and 'lethargic' performance
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