'Britain's Got Talent' Jive Aces 'brainwashed ex-member'

A former Jive Aces member has claimed that the band had attempted to "brainwash" him.

The folk-swing band impressed Britain's Got Talent judges on Saturday's episode (April 28) with their performance of the Jungle Book theme.



Guitarist Johnny Gunner alleges that the other members of the group tried to change his behaviour when they turned to the religion of Scientology.

"They were being brainwashed," he told The Sun.

"I thought I was in danger. I was in the band to play music, not be part of a secret religion. It got to the stage where they said join us or leave. They were a strange bunch."

Singer Ian Clarkson has said of the religion: "Scientology has helped me and the band creatively. If anyone asks, I suggest people read L Ron Hubbard. There's no brainwashing."

However, a spokesperson for the band has denied the accusations, saying: "Johnny Gunner left in 1989. The band did not become Scientologists until 1991."

Susan Boyle has been tipped to return to perform on Britain's Got Talent this year.