Originally Posted by Liz G-S:
“I have been asking myself this since years - there was never anything, he was perhaps a little outspoken on the odd occasion if he felt his partner was being unfairly and excessively criticised or when he was standing up for his fellow pros - in the form of the occasional talking back to the judges or arguments with them, but this was years ago. It seemed to be a label he was given for no real reason and it has stuck. He has always been lovely to his partners regardless of their ability, if they at least try - he didn't get on with one or two who were not interested in learning. He said Jo Wood was his favourite partner, and she was probably the least talented. They are still friends and she was at his wedding.
But since he has found Zoe, his wife, he has been glowing with happiness, it is lovely to see. And it is great that the majority have seen him for the great guy he is - with one notable exception. Apart from this one person, there has been universal positivity on the forums - this has never happened before. There is a reason why he is so popular amongst his fellow pros, he is a really nice, fun guy - not afraid to laugh at himself.
I knew the result in advance, but still felt for Brendan - he seemed to feel responsible, apologised to Anita when they were in the bottom two and again when they were eliminated - he was really upset. A pity as he had choreographed a lovely routine for Anita - but her time had come. He probably knew it could happen, in fact it was probable, but still said yes to helping her and Robin. Good he got a final dance with someone who thanked him, appreciated him and danced with him. It will be interesting what our friend has to say about the result, but at least he seems to be a lone voice this year!”
Thanks for taking the time to explain that, Liz. The ‘bad boy’ tag just didn’t make any sense to me, but I think I understand a bit better now. I can quite easily see him being somewhat protective towards his partners (I suspect he’s a bit of an old school gent in that regard) and having seen pictures of him and Zoe, I can see why he’s so happy! She’s an absolute stunner!
BIB: Honestly, I think that was the worst bit of the evening for me. I had seen the spoilers - I was prepared for Anita’s exit - but poor Brendan just looked so disappointed in himself when they announced Anita’s placing. The way that he kept apologising to her, as though
he had somehow let
her down, just about broke my heart! I think that Brendan is his own harshest critic, but he really has no need to feel responsible for Anita’s departure. She has been a terrific contestant, but - ultimately - this was her time (although I still think that Robbie or Holly could have gone first, but that’s another post altogether…). Thanks to Brendan, she went out on a terrific performance - one of her best, I thought. She really was an ‘Up Town Girl’ tonight….pure class. He should be proud of what he managed to accomplish with her in such a short period of time.
See, as much as I like to go an about his -ahem- physical attributes,
this is why I love Brendan so much. The bloke just seems like such a generous, kind-hearted soul...and Anita seemed to be genuinely fond of him. I just hope that he realises just what a wonderful performance he put on tonight.
I'm not surprised that Anita was out, but it is unfortunate that it was on Brendan's watch. I I hope that he doesn’t blame himself. He did the best that he could, and Anita’s Uptown Girl dance was one of the best that she has produced. 
