In the latest episode of “Britain’s Got Talent,” which aired on Saturday, March 8, heightened tensions and dramatic performances enthralled audiences at the London Palladium. The highlight was a daunting act by Kranthi Drillman, a yoga instructor from India, who shocked both the judges and viewers with his daring use of a sledgehammer while blindfolded.

The 18th series of ITV’s “Britain’s Got Talent” has already garnered considerable attention with its eclectic array of contestants, and Kranthi’s act did not disappoint. During a sequence where he was encouraged to invite Simon Cowell on stage, Kranthi demonstrated his skills by first smashing coconuts and watermelons using various techniques. This led to a more unsettling part of his performance, where he blindfolded himself and swung a sledgehammer near Cowell, who lay on the stage surrounded by the fruit.

As Kranthi prepared for the act, a member of the crew advised Simon to remain still, cautioning that “things could go wrong.” The atmosphere grew even more precarious as Kranthi, appearing to struggle for grip on the slippery stage, attempted to strike the watermelons positioned just inches from Simon’s head. Tensions escalated rapidly, with fellow judges Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden visibly anxious, urging Kranthi to stop.

Cowell later recounted the fear he felt during the performance, stating, “That’s the scariest thing, I swear to God, I’ve ever done.” Referring to Kranthi’s apparent inability to maintain control as he swung the hammer, Simon expressed his genuine concern and shock at the performance, adding, “When he looked at me, I thought, ‘This is it—it’s over.’”

Simon’s experience prompted a wave of reactions from viewers at home, many of whom took to social media to express their disbelief and concern for Cowell’s safety. Some viewers speculated that Kranthi’s blindfold was not genuine, suggesting it appeared too thin to obscure his vision. Comments on social media included assertions like, “There is no way that hammer swinging idiot could not see,” and “What’s the point of the fake blindfold?”

Despite the harrowing nature of the act, Cowell awarded Kranthi a ‘yes’ vote, alongside fellow judge Alesha, who remarked, “I never want to see that again.” The episode also featured two golden buzzers pressed by the judges for standout performances, including guitarist Olly Pearson and Swiss dance troupe The Blackouts.

Pearson, an 11-year-old prodigy, impressed the judges with renditions of classic rock songs, receiving accolades for his skill and passion, culminating in a golden buzzer from Amanda Holden. She described him as “a star born” and praised his performance, which left a profound impact on the audience.

Meanwhile, the show continues to navigate viewer opinions, with a recent spike in complaints directed at Ofcom, particularly regarding a past act by performer Auzzy Blood, which involved graphic and perilous stunts that drew attention from the public.

As the series progresses, “Britain’s Got Talent” remains a focal point in British entertainment, showcasing a mix of talent and unpredictability while engaging both the live audience and viewers across the nation.

Source: Noah Wire Services