TV hanging show sparks complaints

Escapologist Goodwin failed in his mission to escape the noose

A failed attempt at a live TV hanging stunt by an escapologist has received complaints by viewers who feared it could encourage copycats.

Media watchdog Ofcom is now investigating whether the Channel 4 digital channel E4 show Death Wish Live breached broadcasting guidelines.

Escapologist Jonathan Goodwin had to be cut from a noose after failing to free himself after 30 seconds.

Channel 4 said paramedics examined him and his only injuries were rope burns.

A Channel 4 spokeswoman said: "As a result of a pre-arranged safety measure, when Jonathan did not manage to escape within 30 seconds, his friend cut the noose. At no point was Jonathan's life in danger."

Goodwin added: "I was told it was dangerous and stupid and it turns out that the advice was right."

The stunt was part of a week-long show in which Goodwin has to carry out different escapology tasks, culminating in being buried in a coffin and covered in cement on Friday.

Channel 4 received six complaints about the show and Ofcom logged seven calls about it.

Death Wish Live is made by Objective Productions, which produced Derren Brown's Russian Roulette TV stunt.

Ofcom rejected hundreds of complaints that the show glamorised guns.