Tonight’s final audition episode of Britain’s Got Talent 2026 ended in pure chaos at Blackpool.
Japanese performer Mr Cherry delivered one of the most divisive acts of the series — a cheeky strongman routine involving pickles, crushed cans, and opening a wine bottle with his bum.
Simon Cowell slammed the red buzzer in disbelief, but KSI overruled him by smashing the Golden Buzzer, sending Mr Cherry straight to the semi-finals.
The moment instantly split the audience and exploded online. Here’s everything you need to know about Mr Cherry BGT, the act, the drama, and what happens next.
What did Mr Cherry do on Britain’s Got Talent?
Mr Cherry introduced himself as a strongman from Japan and performed a bizarre, comedic variety routine.
He started by presenting a tightly sealed jar of pickles that neither KSI nor Simon Cowell could open — then twisted it open effortlessly with his hands. Next, he sat on aluminium cans and crushed them flat using his body weight.
For the grand finale, he removed some clothing and opened a wine bottle using only his buttocks — the “cheeky” climax that left the judges and audience stunned.
Reactions in the room were mixed, with visible shock from Simon. Online, the clip went viral instantly, sparking heated debate.
Why did KSI give Mr Cherry the Golden Buzzer — despite Simon Cowell’s red buzzer?
This was the most talked-about moment of the night. After the performance, KSI immediately hit his Golden Buzzer (the 9th and final one of the series), while Simon looked visibly shocked.
KSI declared: “Ladies and gentlemen. I don’t know about you but I think that was the greatest thing I’ve ever seen.”
He then ran onto the stage, slipped in the confetti, and slid into Mr Cherry in a chaotic celebration. The move was pure KSI — chaotic, fun, and anti-establishment. It perfectly matched his energetic judging style, even if it left traditionalists (and Simon) stunned.
Who is Mr Cherry? Real name, background, and world records
Mr Cherry (real name: Cherry Yoshitake) is a 45-year-old Japanese comedian, entertainer, and record-breaker — often called “the most famous Japanese person you’ve never heard of.”
He is not a traditional strongman but a novelty performer known for absurd, humorous challenges. He holds 22 Guinness World Records in Japan — the highest number held by any Japanese individual.
Notable records include crushing the most walnuts by sitting down, pulling on the most underpants, and sitting on the most whoopee cushions in 30 seconds.
He appeared for seven seasons on CBBC’s Officially Amazing and previously auditioned on America’s Got Talent Season 16 (2021) with his sensei Chikki, attempting to break a walnut-crushing record with his bum.
Mr Cherry brings pure comedy and absurdity rather than conventional talent — exactly the kind of act that divides BGT fans.
What are fans saying? The backlash explained
Fan reaction was swift and overwhelmingly negative on social media.
Many called it “a joke,” “pathetic,” or claimed the show was “finished.” Criticism focused on two points: the act wasn’t impressive enough for a Golden Buzzer, and frustration that this was the 9th Golden Buzzer of the series.
Some directed anger at KSI, questioning if he was taking the judging role seriously. Others pointed out that BGT has always featured silly novelty and comedy acts — and Mr Cherry fits that chaotic spirit perfectly.
Love it or hate it, the performance achieved exactly what viral BGT moments do: massive conversation.
When is Mr Cherry’s BGT semi-final? What happens next?
Mr Cherry goes straight through to the live semi-finals thanks to KSI’s Golden Buzzer.
The semi-finals begin on Saturday 25 April 2026 at the London Apollo, with five semi-final shows in total. The Grand Final is scheduled for Saturday 30 May 2026.
Mr Cherry’s exact semi-final night is still TBC — we’ll update this article as soon as ITV confirms the running order.
You can watch all live shows on ITV1 and stream on ITVX. The winner receives £250,000 and a spot at the Royal Variety Performance.
All BGT 2026 Golden Buzzer Acts — The Full List
Here are the nine acts who received Golden Buzzers and advanced directly to the semi-finals:
- Paul Nunnari – Wheelchair aerialist (Simon Cowell)
- Rafferty Coope – Musical magician (KSI)
- Antigravity – Multimedia dance group (Alesha Dixon)
- Hawkstone Farmers Choir – Choir (Amanda Holden)
- Ted Hill – Comedian (Ant & Dec)
- Matty Juniosa (Matty J) – Singer (Simon Cowell)
- Braunstone Community Primary School – School choir & dance (Stacey Solomon – guest)
- World Wings – Dance / variety act
- Mr Cherry – Novelty strongman / comedian (KSI) ← Final Golden Buzzer
Last updated: 19 April 2026
Mr Cherry’s bum-bottle routine might be one of the most memorable (and controversial) moments in recent BGT history. Whether you loved the chaos or hated it, he’s now guaranteed a live semi-final spot.
Bookmark this page — we’ll update with Mr Cherry’s semi-final date and performance details as soon as they’re confirmed.
What do you think — genius chaotic fun or step too far? Drop your thoughts in the comments! ✨

