VIEWERS were left shocked as a controversial former Britain’s Got Talent contestant resurfaced across the pond.
After reaching last year’s BGT final, Japanese comedian Tonikaku has tried his luck on America’s Got Talent.
Tonikaku’s quirky performances include removing all of his clothes except his underwear.
From there, he performs a series of poses which make him appear to be naked, although actually still wearing the underwear.
After reaching last year’s Britain’s Got Talent final as the wildcard act, Tonikaku fell short of winning the grand prize, finishing 11th.
Fellow comedian Viggo Venn was crowned the winner and claimed a spot at the Royal Variety Performance.
Almost a year since last year’s BGT finale aired, however, Tonikaku has made a surprise return to screens – but in a brand new setting.
In keeping with his previous Got Talent attempt, the comedian has now tried his luck on America’s Got Talent.
Simon is a judge on the American counterpart as well, where he’s joined by Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum and Sofia Vergara.
Much like before, Tonikaku’s latest audition saw him do ‘naked poses’ in various guises.
This included an American football player, a basketball player and film character John Wick, famously played by Keanu Reeves.
Afterwards, Simon told the panel he “just had a feeling” that they “would love” Tonikaku.
Fellow judge Howie replied: “You know me and you know my sensibility. This is you, Toni, I’m going crazy for you.”
The act proved a hit with the America’s Got Talent judges and audience on the day, with Simon declaring Tonikaku had “4,000 yeses.”
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, a viewer shared: “So ridiculous it was brilliant! Tony had me at “Hellooooo, Hello America.”
Another added: “The end was so funny.”
Britain's Got Talent winners
Britain's Got Talent has a gigantic hall of fame when it comes to its winners - from magicians, comedians to dance troops - the show has had it all. Here's a look back at each winner from each series...
2023 – Viggo Venn
2022 – Axel Blake
2021 – Cancelled by ITV due to the Coronavirus pandemic
2020 – Jon Courtenay
2019 – Colin Thackery
2018 – Lost Voice Guy
2017 – Tokio Myers
2016 – Richard Jones
2015 – Jules O’Dwyer & Matisse
2014 – Collabro
2013 – Attraction
2012 – Ashleigh and Pudsey
2011 – Jai McDowell
2010 – Spelbound
2009 – Diversity
2008 – George Sampson
2007 – Paul Potts
Meanwhile, the current series of Britain’s Got Talent is nearing its endgame.
The live semi-final heats began on Monday, with a variety of acts already having qualified for Sunday’s final.
At present, the line-up includes singer Sydnie Christmas, magician Jack Rhodes and jump rope group Haribow, among others.
Britain’s Got Talent airs on ITV1 and is available on ITVX.
