The latest season of Britain’s Got Talent has sparked a wave of criticism after its premiere episode aired on Saturday, February 22. Viewers expressed concerns over the suitability of some performances, particularly for younger audiences, leading to backlash against the show's producers.

One of the most contentious acts featured Japanese performer Akira, who delivered a slapstick comedy routine completely nude, using only a silver plate and various props for coverage. While the live audience was spared any explicit visuals, TV viewers saw the performance with a Union Jack graphic covering Akira’s nudity. However, the act’s pre-watershed airing at family-friendly hours angered many parents.

Online reactions poured in, with one YouTube user exclaiming, "Absolutely ridiculous! I had to tell my own children to look away! Kids are watching this!" Another viewer questioned the screening process, asking, "How did this get approved before 9 PM?"

Shock and Horror Over Second Act

Another act that caused a stir was Auzzy Blood, whose terrifying stunt performance left both the judges and audience in shock. Dressed in a black cloak with a Joker-inspired face, Auzzy inserted metal spirals through his nose and throat, prompting a "Do Not Try This at Home" warning on the screen. The act escalated as he threaded a tube through his nostril and invited judge Simon Cowell to drink from it.

The climax of his performance saw Auzzy suspending himself from a hook pierced through his nose, horrifying many viewers. Social media erupted with reactions, with one user on X (formerly Twitter) stating, "This is not suitable for a family show!" Another viewer wrote, "I’m definitely having nightmares tonight!"

Parents shared their children’s reactions, with one saying, "I’ve got one kid screaming, one in awe, and one hiding behind a pillow." Another frustrated parent added, "My son asked why people were clapping. I told him because it’s finally over!"

Even Simon Cowell admitted the act might be too much for some viewers, acknowledging, "It’s the kind of thing you don’t want to watch, but you do. We’ll probably get complaints—hopefully."

Mixed Reactions and Golden Buzzers

Despite the controversy, the premiere episode saw two contestants securing the Golden Buzzer, guaranteeing their spots in the semi-finals. Will Burns’ impressions and Vinnie McKee’s singing performance impressed the judging panel, which includes Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, KSI, Bruno Tonioli, and Alesha Dixon.

Britain’s Got Talent continues next Saturday on ITV1 and ITVX.