'Britain's Got Talent' contestant risks his life in live stunt gone wrong
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Paramedics were primed to save "Britain’s Got Talent" star Matt Johnson’s life after he was forced to gesture for help during his life-threatening performance.
The escapologist spent two minutes with his head locked in a box filled with water, unable to take a breath.
He had failed to get out at the “safe” time of one minute 45 seconds so medics walked on stage ready to intervene, The Sun reports.
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By two minutes Matt had to beckon for a metal pole that helped him escape at two minutes and 21 seconds.
The dangerous stunt saw him secured in a solid steel box with padlocks, chains around his body and handcuffs on his wrists.
All four judges looked horrified by the act, with Simon Cowell branding him a “lunatic.”
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David Walliams said: “This is the perfect act for anyone who wants to watch someone drown. I was really worried for you when the paramedic came on.”
Amanda Holden, who leapt out of her chair when Matt was finally released from the box, said: “Oh my God I really hate it, I hold my breath with you for the whole thing. I basically nearly passed out myself.
“It’s exciting to watch — you’re very brave and I’m glad you’re still alive.”
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Viewers were left furious when, despite risking his life for the variety show, Matt failed to get a space in the final.
One said: “How did Matt Johnson not get through? He actually brought excitement and danger to this pathetic show for once, but the sad British public ruins it.”
Another added: “I’m sorry but Matt Johnson absolutely smashed it, was one of my faves from the beginning and should defo have been in the final.”
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This story originally appeared in The Sun.