The latest season of Britain’s Got Talent has triggered a surge of complaints from fans. But judge Bruno Tonioli has recently spoken against the critics in a defiant move.
Britain’s Got Talent recently attracted a series of complaints from viewers – but judge Bruno Tonioli has decided not to focus on the criticism and recommends critics “read a book.”
The final of the ITV programme airs on Saturday, May 31st – and judge Bruno Tonioli already knows who has stolen his heart. “We’ve had a variety of talent this year. The Blackouts are insane,” he says.
But it’s drag soprano Jasmine Rice who has his vote. He was so moved by her audition, he hit the Golden Buzzer. “That performance was absolutely incredible for me,” he says, “That was the most surprising, somebody that really rises to the occasion and exceeds all expectations.”
Jasmine, who spoke openly about the rejection she’s faced for performing in drag, struck a deep chord with Bruno, 69. “Being able to be calm and communicate a message without bitterness and with hope, determination – that’s very valid. I found those moments special.”
Still, BGT isn’t without its controversies. Auditions from stuntman Auzzy Blood and nudist Akira both drew Ofcom complaints earlier this year.
The semi-finals added more after Bao Cuong pulled hosts Ant & Dec on a motorbike using only his eyelids. But Bruno shrugs it off. “I don’t focus on the negative,” he says. “Social media? Forget it. ‘Life is too short,’ he adds, ‘Read a book!’”
He’s more concerned about the impact social media can have on younger generations. “If I had kids, I’d be petrified,” he says. “It’s an alternative universe. It can be fun, but we need strict guidelines, especially for children.”
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Bruno doesn’t always see eye-to-eye with the other BGT judges – Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden – but he takes it in stride.
“Shows give you a range of opinions,” he says. “I may have a certain angle but I never said I am absolutely right. I only point things out. That’s why the judges are there. The decision is ultimately made by the public.”
Still, he and Simon go way back. “We’ve been friends for 40 years,” Bruno says, brushing off any on-air tension. “When you’re on-screen, you play a role,” Bruno says. “We’re both very laid-back people, actually. He’s very easy-going. But on TV, you become an extension of yourself.”
That goes for Amanda and Alesha, too. He’s particularly fond of Amanda, whom he’s known for years, but his bond with Alesha also goes beyond BGT.
The pair first met when she competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2007. Back then, Bruno was a judge on the BBC One staple. Alesha eventually joined him on the panel.
“Alesha was one of our best winners. We have the biggest giggles,” Bruno says. “Though I probably exhaust her – I’m always distracting her!”
What keeps Bruno grounded is his own past – he’s stood in the shoes of every hopeful auditioning. “I have done what they do. I have done auditions and failed them,” he says. “But you learn from your failures when you take it as a way of understanding what you should do to improve.”
And he knows what it means to stand on the Royal Variety Performance stage – the prize waiting for this year’s winner plus £250,000 cash. “I’ve done it quite a few times over the years,” he says.
“Both as a choreographer and a performer.” He’s even had the chance to meet King Charles and Queen Camilla. “They’re both the most wonderful people,” Bruno says. “And she loves dancing. She has a really good sense of humour, there’s that twinkle in her eye that I find delicious. She’s cool!”
As the final looms, Bruno’s already feeling the heat – and the hilarity. This year’s top acts are a testament to BGT ’s chaotic charm: from LED dance crew The Blackouts to 11-year-old guitar prodigy Olly Pearson.
Other acts in the final include soulful singer Vinnie McKee, ping pong dancing troupe Ping Pong Pang, comedian Joseph Charm and Maya Giotea – another Golden Buzzer pick from Bruno.
Bruno’s energy remains undimmed. He’d even love to explore acting – ideally as a villain. “I’d love to do dramas because it’s another part of me,” he says.
“I’d love to play a real baddie. I love Guy Ritchie’s works, they’re brilliant and edgy. But I’m not one of those people that call their agent 25 times a day. I’ve never even had a PR or a social media manager!”
Off-screen, Bruno enjoys a quiet life. “Every Saturday, I’m in my garden. I love gardening, and I cook!” he says. But this Saturday, it’s all eyes on the BGT stage and with the knockout finalists vying for the crown, anything could happen. But who will win the nation’s heart?
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