Britain’s Got Talent judge Bruno Tonioli has defended semi-finalist Auzzy Blood’s controversial horror-themed performance, stating he does not believe the act to be “offensive”, despite the show receiving hundreds of Ofcom complaints.
The US contestant, whose real name is Austin Punton, caused a stir during his audition in February. His daring routine saw him inserting metallic objects into his face, before threading a tube through his nose and mouth, allowing judge Simon Cowell to drink through it. The act culminated with Auzzy climbing a rope suspended high above the stage, using only a metal hook lodged in his mouth — a moment so intense that several judges turned away in discomfort.
Following the broadcast, Britain’s Got Talent was inundated with 771 complaints to the media watchdog Ofcom, concerning both Auzzy Blood’s audition and that of Japanese performer Akira Ohashi, whose routine involved elements of nudity.
Addressing the controversy, Tonioli, 69, said: “He does make you cringe but it’s a very, very, very sophisticated act in a way. It’s presentation, to me, it was a bit like the Hammer House of Horror feel — those movies that had this kind of wonderful, gothic atmosphere to them.”
The veteran performer and judge continued: “It’s part of the range of entertainment. These acts are huge in Vegas. It does make you squeal, but I don’t think it’s offensive. I think because there is a lot of skill in what he does, and the way it’s presented is quite fascinating.”
Tonioli explained that what impressed him most was the unpredictability of the act, adding: “What is incredible, and what I like about the show, is that he’s exciting. We didn’t know what was going to happen, and it’s open to all parts of what we call variety.”
Reflecting on the long-standing history of sideshow-style performances, Tonioli said: “Going back in time, these acts were part of the range of entertainers they used to show, so there is naturally a historical precedence to it. It’s not something we did just for shock value. It is something that is out there and it has been around within this canon of variety for hundreds of years.”
“I don’t think it’s that shocking, but that is my opinion, and I respect everyone else’s,” he added.
Tonioli also emphasised the importance of variety in the popular ITV talent show, saying: “The worst thing you can do is be boring. The show has to present a range of acts. I don’t see why you shouldn’t see it [Auzzy Blood’s act]. Obviously, it creates a reaction, but within that kind of act it was very good, and it’s a variety show. I don’t think it was done intentionally to get a reaction.”
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He went on to suggest that Auzzy Blood’s act would be well-suited to the vibrant entertainment scene in Las Vegas, commenting: “He would go down very well there.”
The first live semi-final of Britain’s Got Talent is set to air at 7pm on Saturday across ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player.
The semi-finals will feature eight acts performing live each night for the chance to reach the grand final. The coveted prize includes a £250,000 cash award and a sought-after spot performing at the Royal Variety Performance before members of the Royal Family.
Throughout the live shows, judges Tonioli, Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon will each have the opportunity to use their golden buzzer once more, sending a contestant straight through to the final.
With the competition heating up and a broad range of talent on display, audiences can expect plenty of surprises — and perhaps a few more controversial moments — in the weeks ahead.
