Liu Wei — Armless Pianist — Wins “China’s Got Talent” Season 1

A musician who lost both arms in a childhood accident and plays the piano with his toes won the first season of the Asian TV talent show China’s Got Talent at Shanghai Stadium on Sunday night, thanks to his wistful rendition of James Blunt’s ballad “You’re Beautiful.”

Liu Wei, who turned 23 last Thursday, learned to stroke the keys with his feet after losing both arms at age 10. Wei was injured after when he touched a high-voltage wire while playing hide-and-seek with friends. At 18, he decided to pursue a career in music, using his feet to play the piano, much as he uses them to navigate on the computer, eat, dress, and brush his teeth.

“At least I have a pair of perfect legs,” the Beijing pianist has been known to quip.

Wei thrilled the judges and live audience to win the competition final over seven-year-old stand-up comedian Zhang Fengxi.

As part of his grand prize package, Wei will reportedly receive a recording contract with Fremantle Media and Sony Music Entertainment. He’s also been invited to support Taiwan singer Jolin Tsai on her world tour.