Fire, Rubix Cubes, and Furious Fans: The Dangerous ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ Stunt That Went Too Far
When stuntman Thomas Vu appeared on Britain’s Got Talent on Sunday night, viewers weren’t just amazed—they were outraged.
Thomas, known for his roles in Shang Chi and Ready Player One, took the stage with a jaw-dropping act: solving a Rubik’s Cube while on fire. Yes, you read that right. Covered in fire-retardant gel and set alight, Thomas wowed the audience with his mind-bending Rubik’s Cube skills, but not everyone was impressed.
@BGT absolutely not on, setting yourself on fire, do not try this at home. Shouldn't be allowed….
— caron stanley (@cazockstan) April 16, 2023
While the judges were speechless and the crowd gave him a standing ovation, those watching from home weren’t as thrilled. Social media erupted with angry comments, with many fans claiming the stunt was simply too dangerous, especially for a family show.
@ITV and @BGT sorry but showing a man setting himself on fire on a "family" show is not acceptable. Even with the mention "do not try this at home" 😕
— David Pelissier (@DavidPelissier3) April 16, 2023
One user tweeted, “Absolutely not on, setting yourself on fire, do not try this at home. Shouldn’t be allowed….” Another echoed, “Sorry, but showing a man setting himself on fire on a ‘family’ show is not acceptable. Even with the mention ‘do not try this at home.’” And a third added, “This was very dangerous. Shouldn’t have been allowed to do it.”
This was very dangerous should not of been allowed to do it ,
— Carole Davey (@CaroleDavey20) April 16, 2023
Fans were quick to point out the irony of showcasing such a perilous stunt on a show meant to entertain families. A fourth commenter highlighted the potential risks to younger viewers: “Totally ill-considered showing a guy setting himself on fire while solving a Rubik’s Cube. No thought to the fact impressionable children watch this show.”
@BGT Totally ill considered showing a guy setting himself on fire whilst solving a rubix cube. No thought to the fact impressionable children watch this show.
— Lynne (@lynne7le1) April 16, 2023
In response, a spokesperson for Britain’s Got Talent clarified the situation. “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 program was subject to strict compliance rules,” they said.
Right if Nathan doesnt win Britains got Talent there will be riots #BritainsGotTalent
— Becca Willis (@beccawillissafc) April 16, 2023
Despite the fiery controversy, not all moments on the show were met with criticism. Another heartwarming story came from 24-year-old ballroom dancer Nathan, who captivated viewers with his performance alongside dance partner Joanne. Nathan, who has Down syndrome, danced to Shakira’s hit “Try Everything” and left the audience cheering for more.
With his sparkling black shirt and matching trousers, Nathan dazzled the judges, earning four “yes” votes. His audition quickly became the talk of the internet, with many fans rallying behind him. One tweeted, “If Nathan doesn’t win Britain’s Got Talent, there will be riots!” Another said, “This is what Britain’s Got Talent should be about. Go Nathan!”
#BritainsGotTalent that is what Britain's Got Talent should be about . Go Nathan ❤
— katieg (@katienotkaie) April 16, 2023
Nathan’s performance wasn’t just a dance; it was a reminder of the power of talent, determination, and heart. So while some acts might leave us questioning safety, others, like Nathan’s, remind us why we love shows like this in the first place.
Nathan the dancer is FIERCE and I’m so here for it 👏🏾 #BritainsGotTalent #BGT #BGT2023
— Ella (@Damerella) April 16, 2023
What do you think? Was the fire stunt too much, or just the right amount of shock factor? Share your thoughts!
