Paul Potts has insisted he was not “sulking” after failing to make the final of Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions.
The classical singer was eliminated from the competition – much to the shock of viewers – after returning to the BGT stage on Saturday night as part of the all-star series.
Some viewers and tabloid press claimed it looked as if Paul, who won the very first series of the ITV show in 2007, looked annoyed that he had not made the cut.
He has since hit out at those accusations on Twitter, claiming “that’s what he looks like most of the time”.
Posting a picture of him with a similar face, the former Carphone Warehouse salesman wrote: “To those that thought I was sulking – that’s what I look like most of the time lol.
“I can prove it with this still from the original audition: I don’t do fake smiles, but it doesn’t mean I am grumpy sulky or feeling entitled.”
Not only were viewers outraged Paul had not made the final, judge Amanda Holden was also shocked he had failed to make the top three acts, shouting “what about Paul Potts?” at the result.
Saturday’s instalment saw sand artist Kseniya Simonova and daredevil father and daughter duo Bello and Annaliese Nock win a place in the final.
The original winner of Ukraine’s Got Talent went straight through after Amanda pressed her Golden Buzzer, while Bello and Annaliese were chosen by the audience at Wembley.
Other acts who appeared included former child singer Connie Talbot and dancing dog act Ashleigh and Sully.
Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions continues on Saturday on ITV.
