The “art or obscenity” scandal over the latest episode of Thailand’s Got Talent television show now threatens to expose grave violations of media ethics as allegations came out yesterday that the contestant in question had been “hired” to go on stage.

Following strong criticism of the show’s Sunday episode showing a female contestant paint on canvas with her bare breasts, Thai Rath newspaper reported yesterday that Duangjai Jansaunoi, 23, had been hired by the show’s producers – Workpoint Entertainment.

The news report quoted a close friend of the contestant as saying that Duangjai had been paid Bt10,000 to help boost the show’s ratings.

Read more: The Nation