Britain's Got Talent has received 89 complaints to Ofcom after a performance featuring a man suspended by hooks through his nipples and other body parts. The act, by duo Baron and Vesper, aired on Saturday night's episode of the ITV talent show, which is in its 19th series.
During the stunt, the performer flew through the air with hooks through his nipples, earlobes and elsewhere. Co-host Declan Donnelly warned viewers not to attempt the dangerous act, and a on-screen caution appeared. Despite this, some viewers reported feeling physically sick, with several contacting the broadcasting regulator.
The judges appeared visibly uncomfortable, with Amanda Holden running away screaming, 'Oh my God he's coming, he's coming,' as the performer approached the desk. KSI, also a judge, admitted, 'I don't know what to look at.' Alesha Dixon remarked, 'Even you're shocked,' as the man exposed a nipple.
Viewers at home were divided. One fumed, 'This needs to stop in the bedroom, not on TV.' Another wrote, 'Don't know whether to clap or cry or to gag or to do all three?' A third said, 'I feel physically sick.' Others called the act 'stupidity' rather than talent.
Despite the controversy, the duo received a standing ovation from the live audience and advanced to the next round. Amanda said it was 'horrifically brilliant,' while Alesha called it 'difficult to watch, weird and brilliant.' Simon Cowell threw the deciding vote to the audience, who cheered in favour.
