‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 12: Mel B Storms Off On Live Television

“America’s Got Talent” Season 12 aired its second live show on Tuesday night. But what was supposed to be an enjoyable event turned sour after Simon Cowell cracked an insensitive joke that made judge Mel B walk out on live television.

Following escape artist Demian Aditya’s performance, a confused Mel B wondered whether or not the contestant was able to get out of the box before it almost fell on the ground due to a mishap. The Spice Girls singer gave Aditya a red buzzer, but when he walked behind the judges with a fire extinguisher, an unimpressed Simon Cowell gave him his red buzzer.

While commenting on the Indonesian native’s performance, Cowell threw shade at Mel B when he compared Aditya’s performance to Mel B’s wedding night with estranged husband Stephen Belafonte. “I kind of imagine this would be like Mel B’s wedding night. A lot of anticipation, not much promise or delivery,” he said.

Mel B quickly got up on her feet and threw water on Cowell. She then walked off the stage, and host Tyra Banks later announced that the singer had left the building. Banks also stressed the fact that the show was airing live so anything can happen to the contestants and even the judges.

As of late, Mel B has not yet opened up about the incident, but she returned to her seat in the judges’ panel after the break.

The singer, also known as Scary Spice, filed for divorce from Belafonte in March after nearly 10 years of marriage. In April, she filed for a restraining order against her estranged husband and claimed that the latter physically and verbally abused her when they were still together, according to E! News. Last month, People reported that Mel B has been ordered to pay Belafonte $40,000 monthly in temporary spousal support.

Meanwhile, 12 acts performed in the quarterfinals at the Dolby Theater. Johnny Manuel, Mandy Harvey, Evie Clair and Celine Tam all received positive comments from the judges. Robotic dancer Merrick Hanna had Cowell on his feet after his performance. All four judges were also impressed with magician Eric Jones’ act, especially after he managed to go through a glass without breaking it.

Other performers for the night included The Masqueraders, Banks’ golden buzzer recipient the Light Balance dancer, dog act Pompeyo Family, twin singers and dancers Mirror Image and dance troupe Brobots & Mandroidz. Unfortunately, only six acts will make it through to the semifinals.

“America’s Got Talent” Season 12 airs Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. EDT on NBC.