ITV Britain’s Got Talent pulled from schedule in huge schedule shake-up

Britain’s Got Talent, which returned for its 18th series last month, is set to undergo a significant schedule change just weeks into the new series.

Fans planning to watch on March 15 will be left disappointed as the Saturday night staple has been removed from its regular slot due to a major sporting event but will return on Saturday, March 22.

The Six Nations rugby matches will be broadcast instead, with ITV airing Italy v Ireland at 2.15pm and later France v Scotland at 8pm, according to reports.

This development follows a second wave of Ofcom complaints received by the popular show in just a few weeks. The broadcasting regulator has received 57 additional complaints, bringing the total number of grievances to an astonishing 828.


BGT© (Image: ITV)

The majority of these complaints have been aimed at US performer Auzzy Blood and his gruesome act, which some viewers labelled as “sickening”.

Auzzy’s performance, aired last Saturday night, involved him hoisting himself above the stage using a chain attached to a meat hook that pierced both his nose and mouth. He also inserted large screws into his nostrils, leaving viewers shocked, reports the Express.

An Ofcom representative confirmed: “The vast majority of complaints were about Auzzy Blood’s routine. These are additional complaints to those reported last week, and the cumulative total is 828.”


Auzzy© (Image: ITV)

It was disclosed last week that more than 700 viewers had lodged complaints with Ofcom. The majority of these complaints were about Auzzy, with the published figure standing at 680.

After his performance, one viewer was incensed, taking to social media to vent: “@ofcom will be getting lots of complaints tomorrow from this guy hanging from his nose.”

They continued to express their discomfort: “My daughters nearly throwing up and I just couldn’t look at all. #bgt no.”

Another chimed in with their own experience: “I’ve sent one, my 6 year old was traumatised poor thing. It’s not even 9pm.”