In 2012, Beatrix Von Bourbon, a professional burlesque dancer from London, captivated audiences with her unique and daring audition on Britain’s Got Talent (BGT). Known for her vintage-inspired burlesque style, Von Bourbon’s performance stood out in the competition’s sixth series, combining classic glamour with modern sensuality.
At 27 years old, she took to the stage dressed in a striking purple gown, complete with elegant gloves and feather fans. Her routine was set to Peggy Lee’s iconic song “Fever,” evoking the sultry ambiance of the 1940s burlesque era. The act included a sophisticated striptease, culminating in the revealing of a corset and nipple tassels, hallmark elements of traditional burlesque artistry.
The performance aired before the 9 p.m. watershed on ITV, which led to more than 70 complaints to Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator. Despite the controversy surrounding the sensual nature of the act on a primetime show, an official investigation concluded that the broadcaster had taken appropriate steps to ensure the footage complied with broadcasting standards.
Beatrix Von Bourbon’s audacious audition earned her a spot in the live semi-finals, where she once again impressed the judges and viewers with her confident and theatrical performance. However, despite her popularity, she was eliminated in the fourth semi-final after finishing eighth in the public vote.
Her appearance on Britain’s Got Talent remains memorable as one of the most talked-about burlesque performances on the show, highlighting the genre’s blend of artistry, humor, and sensuality while pushing the boundaries of mainstream television.
For fans of burlesque and vintage performance styles, Beatrix Von Bourbon’s audition remains a shining example of how classic glamour can be brought to life on a modern stage.
