Channel 4’s social experiment, Handcuffed: Last Pair Standing, hosted by Jonathan Ross, erupted into turmoil just 12 hours into filming when Sir Benjamin Slade, 79, dramatically quit the show. The 7th Baronet of Maunsel, and Somerset local, made headlines during the show for defending a controversial painting by Adolf Hitler displayed in his home.
The tension escalated backstage when Benjamin demanded access to his mobile phone, only to be denied by producers citing game rules that forbid phones. In a shocking turn, the shirtless Baronet stormed off, dragging his reluctant partner George—a 60-year-old retired prison officer—still chained to him by handcuffs.
As George protested, “I’m not a Jack Russell,” Benjamin retrieved bolt cutters from his household staff and freed them both by cutting the handcuffs, effectively ending their participation after just half a day. A member of the production team was overheard pleading, “Please do not push me and take your hand off my camera,” amidst the chaos.
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Addressing the camera, Benjamin declared defiantly that he refused to be controlled in his own home, dismissing producers by stating he was “not a p***y.” Ultimately, the pair became the first to be eliminated from the competition, with George expressing pride in his conduct.
Viewers reacted swiftly and strongly on social media. Some condemned Benjamin’s possession and defense of a Hitler painting, questioning the appropriateness of such views on primetime television. Comments ranged from criticizing George’s unwillingness to assert himself sooner to praising his “strong backbone” in confronting Benjamin’s remarks and behavior.
The controversy ignited earlier when Benjamin gave George a tour of his 14th-century Somerset residence, showcasing the Hitler artwork. Benjamin called it “just German art you’ve got to respect,” while George vocally rejected this, calling Hitler “a horror of a human being” and demanding respect for those offended by the display.
Benjamin further claimed Hitler was “very good with children, dogs and loved to paint,” statements that drew immediate outrage online for their insensitivity and historical dismissiveness.
Handcuffed: Last Pair Standing premiered on March 2 at 9pm on Channel 4, promising a blend of social experiment and high-stakes drama—something it certainly delivered in this explosive exit.