Britain's Got Talent viewers have criticised a stunt in which a contestant set himself on fire while solving a Rubik's Cube, calling it 'unacceptable' for a family show.
Professional stuntman Thomas Vu appeared on the ITV programme on Sunday night, covered in fire-retardant gel, as he attempted to solve the iconic 80s puzzle while ablaze. The act received a standing ovation from judges and the audience, but sparked outrage among viewers at home.
'BGT absolutely not on, setting yourself on fire, do not try this at home. Shouldn't be allowed,' wrote one viewer on social media. Another added: 'Like what has BGT come to when we set people on fire for entertainment.'
A BGT spokesperson defended the act, saying: 'Britain's Got Talent showcases a mix of variety acts to engage audiences. In this case, it was made very clear on screen that this act should not be tried at home and the programme was subject to strict compliance rules.'
The controversy comes as the show returned for its sixteenth series with a new judging panel featuring Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli, replacing David Walliams. Some viewers also criticised the opening sketch featuring Ant and Dec on the Coronation Street cobbles, calling it 'cringe'.
