Music mogul Simon Cowell has finally explained his recent Britain’s Got Talent absence, revealing he suffered a fall that left him with a head injury
Simon Cowell ‘bashes head’ after fainting and falling down steps in latest accident(Image: Trae Patton/NBC via Getty Images)
Simon Cowell has revealed that his recent no-show at Britain’s Got Talent auditions came after he fell down another set of steps – the latest in a series of mishaps for the long-time judge.
The 66-year-old music mogul missed the first two days of filming in Birmingham after the incident, leaving producers to call in Stacey Solomon to temporarily fill his place on the panel.
Cowell then later reappeared on the third day of auditions with a visible graze on his forehead, explaining only that he’d had “an accident.”
His absence was finally addressed during the show’s Blackpool auditions, when a choir made up of ambulance staff took to the stage. Amanda Holden joked: “I thought they might be here in case anything went wrong with you again because you were poorly last week.”
Laughing off the comment, Cowell clarified what actually had happened as he finally shared the truth.
Speaking to the audience at the Winter Gardens, he said: “I fell down some steps, that wasn’t poorly, and I bumped my head, but I’m fine now.
“I wish you had been around a couple of weeks ago when I actually bashed my head. Seriously, no one sang for me then,” he added.
A show insider said the fall was a minor accident. They told The Sun: “Simon bumped his head when he stumbled on some steps. It’s the sort of thing that can happen to anyone. And, thankfully, he’s absolutely fine now.”
The timing of the incident, which occurred on October 1 and just a day before Birmingham auditions were due to begin, forced the show to cancel the opening session.
Rather than pause production entirely, Stacey Solomon was drafted in to maintain the four-judge panel, with Amanda Holden briefly stepping up as head judge.
Cowell later reassured fans via a short video, showing off the mark on his forehead and saying: “It’s Simon, I’m alive and I’m in Birmingham, I just want to say thank you for all your get well messages.”
It’s not the first time Cowell has been injured in a fall. In 2017, he was taken from his London home on a stretcher wearing a neck brace after tumbling down stairs just before The X Factor live shows.
Three years later, he broke his back testing an electric bike in Los Angeles, requiring major surgery and months of recovery.
Despite his latest setback, Cowell appeared in good spirits this week as he joined judges Amanda Holden, KSI, and Alesha Dixon on the red carpet for the Blackpool auditions.
BRAVE Amanda Holden takes to the Britain’s Got Talent red carpet wearing the top that almost saw her flash the show’s audience at auditions.
But an onlooker said the 54-year-old “was being much more careful this time round.”
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Amanda Holden takes to the Britain’s Got Talent red carpet wearing the top that almost saw her flash the show’s audience at auditionsCredit: Getty
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BGT judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and KSI pose for a selfieCredit: X
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From left: Ant McPartlin, Alesha, Amanda, Simon, KSI and Declan DonnellyCredit: Getty
Show judge Amanda — in a lop-sided strapless top — nearly exposed herself by lifting her left arm to wave at the crowd as she strutted on stage at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Saturday.
After adjusting her clothes to preserve her modesty she sat down.
Then, gesturing to her boob, she admitted: “This keeps slipping out every time I raise my arms.”
Yesterday The Sun revealed a small production team were quickly put on “nipple watch” to ensure there were no surprise appearances during filming of the ITV talent contest.
Our observer reported: “She waved with her left hand, where her top had more coverage than on the right-hand side, and kept her other hand firmly in her pocket most of the time.
“Amanda didn’t want any wardrobe malfunctions again. She was probably already feeling the chill in blustery Blackpool.”
Also dressed for sunnier climes was head judge Simon Cowell in shades, and fellow panellist Alesha Dixon wearing sunglasses and a crop-top.
Only hosts Ant and Dec and new judge KSI — taking over from Bruno Tonioli — looked ready for Lancashire weather.
Auditions for the 19th series of BGT, due to air next year, continue in the seaside town until the end of this week.
The Watch List with Rod McPhee
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Amanda nearly exposed herself by lifting her left arm to wave at the crowdCredit: Getty
BRITAIN’S Got Talent star, Dave Betton, who was praised by Simon Cowell after performing with his son has died, aged 82.
Betton had appeared on the show alongside his son Dean in 2020, reaching its latter stages after impressing the judges.
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Britain’s Got Talent star, Dave Betton, has died aged 82Credit: ITV
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He performed alongside his son Dean in 2020Credit: ITV
The father-son duo had left them stunned throughout and at one point received a standing ovation for rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life”.
Simon Cowell said at the time: “There are certain days I think what I need is a mug of hot chocolate – and you were a mug of hot chocolate!
“You made me feel good, I needed that.”
Betton, from Chesterfield, worked as a club singer after moving to Blackpool in 1981 with his wife after she bought the Dorchester Hotel.
Throughout the 1970s, 80s and 90s he performed at clubs up and down the coast on the local circuit.
He went on to perform on tour in Australia and South Africa and even had a stint in Las Vegas, achieving a personal ambition of his.
Following the death of his wife, he had retired 15 years ago.
His son, Dean, had also carved out a career as a Robbie Williams tribute act and it was his idea that they should go on Britain’s Got Talent where they were billed as Dave and Dean.
“I always looked up to my Dad and he inspired me to take up singing, quite late in the game,” Dean said.
“He was definitely a local legend in his time – he would pack out clubs.”
Dave sadly passed away last month from sepsis after a short illness and was surrounded by his family.
His funeral will take place on Monday, October 27 at Carleton Crematorium.
He leaves two sons, five grandchildren, five great grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and a step great granddaughter.
More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online
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Comedian and TV star Paul O’Grady was set to be the host of Britain’s Got Talent and even have the show named after him until things got very heated behind the scenes
13:47, 07 Oct 2025Updated 13:47, 07 Oct 2025
Paul O’Grady was set to be the host of Britain’s Got Talent before Ant and Dec(Image: TV Times via Getty Images)
Former Britain’s Got Talent judge Piers Morgan has revealed Paul O’Grady was meant to be the host for the hit talent show, until things went very wrong. The controversial broadcaster was part of the original line up on Simon Cowell’s talent show back in 2007.
Music mogul Simon was inspired by former talent shows including Opportunity Knocks and New Faces as he wanted to create a competition for people of any age and location to enter. He wanted a range of personalities on the judging panel with him, and first settled on Piers and Fern Britton.
Piers admitted: “I owe him a lot actually because I would not have had any career in America without him. He has been great for me. He said ‘I am going to bring back an old all-round talent show like New Faces, Opportunity Knocks and The Gong Show in America. It can be any talent’.”
The broadcaster explained: “We did a pilot at ITV. Paul O’Grady was the host. The judging panel was Simon Cowell, me, and Fern Britton. It was about to be greenlit as a prime-time ITV show.”
Piers said he was ready “to get back in the game” but things quickly took a turn and the production was halted. He said: “Then Paul O’Grady had a massive falling out with ITV, told them to shove it and went to Channel 4.”
At the time, the Paul O’Grady Show moved over to Channel 4 and ITV stopped him being able to rent their studios. Paul decided to refuse all work with the network following the row.
He explained years later: “I did the pilot for Britain’s Got Talent – which was originally going to be called Paul O’Grady’s Got Talent. But I told the producers they were having a joke if they thought I would front a show with that title.
“The original panel of judges was going to be Simon Cowell, Fern Britton and Piers Morgan. I was the host. Then when I had the row with ITV I was banned from the studios.
“I remember I rang Simon and told him he had a huge hit on his hands, but there was no way I could do it. I said, if I am banned I have to be banned from everything. I can’t be a hypocrite and come in and do this. I had to bow out.”
Paul added: “I don’t regret what I did. Not in the slightest. Good luck to them.” He did also manage to patch things up with ITV and returned years later with Paul O’Grady Live!.
Paul’s decision to boycott ITV meant Britain’s Got Talent was hit with a huge delay and Simon decided to kick off with America’s Got Talent first. Simon enlisted Piers again as he wanted “someone who is judgmental, opinionated, obnoxious and arrogant” as him.
Britain’s Got Talent hit screens a year later with Simon, Piers and Amanda Holden as judges and Ant and Dec as hosts. Piers said on The Overlap and Betfair’s Stick to Cricket show: “He had literally come up with the entire concept of Got Talent on a napkin at the Ivy in Kensington.
“Bring back a talent show. Have a tough mean judge, a mother hen figure, a funny person and any talent goes. Now the Got Talent franchise is in more than 60 countries around the world. It changed my life.”
Contestants that missed out on the chance to audition for Britain’s Got Talent over the past week may soon have their moment on the stage as bosses are planning to film the lost episode
Plans are in motion to film missing Britain’s Got Talent scenes after Simon Cowell was forced to drop out(Image: Trae Patton/NBC via Getty Images)
Britain’s Got Talent has been thrown into chaos after show boss Simon Cowell suffered an injury – with a scramble now on to make up for lost time. The long-running ITV reality show is currently filming the 19th season – having launched all the way back in 2007.
But the latest season got off to a bad start over the past week – as auditions planned for Thursday had to be abandoned after Simon, 65, suffered a bash to the head. Hopefuls that were expecting to be judged in Birmingham were left disappointed when an entire day of filming was scrapped.
And now show bosses are scrambling to recover the episode so that the auditionees can have their moment on the stage. The process is said to be a strain due to the last minute nature of organising filming that would normally take weeks of planning.
A source told The Sun: “It looks like they will hold the supplementary session on Friday, then continue with the scheduled days of auditions continuing for a further week. They feel so bad for all the people left disappointed by what happened last week and want to do what they can to make things right – even though it’s going to take a lot of last-minute organising.”
The Mirror has contacted representatives of Britain’s Got Talent for comment. The update comes days after Simon was spotted with a graze on his forehead, and it was revealed he had injured himself. A source previously told The Sun: “Simon had a terrible headache and migraine – caused by an accidental bump on the head.
“He’s fighting fit now, though – and was revelling in being in Birmingham and back in his judge seat.” The Mirror has contacted Simon’s spokesperson for comment.
The man himself has addressed the drama, sharing a video of himself on social media which made light of his injury. He declared in a video shared via Instagram: “It’s Simon, I’m alive and I’m in Birmingham, I just want to say thank you for all your get well messages.”
He then focused the camera on his grazed forehead, but then produced a happy smile. As he was forced to drop out of filming at the end of last week, former X Factor contestant Stacey Solomon was parachuted in to fill the vacant judges’ seat during auditions on Friday.
The mum-of-five, 35, took to her Instagram stories to post a picture of the iconic BGT stage with her name in lights on the iconic stage. Alongside the picture, Stacey wrote: “What in the alternative universe is going on. A dream.”
Simon has previously opened up about the debilitating migraines he occasionally suffers, which interfere with his work.
He previously explained that he often wears red-tinted glasses to help counter the effects of studio and stage lighting.
The star, who turns 66 on Tuesday, has suffered a string of injuries in recent years. In 2020, he broke his back after falling off an electric bike at his Los Angeles home – an accident that required surgery and months of recovery.
Cowell, who is engaged to Lauren Silverman and father to 11-year-old Eric, described the injury as a harsh reminder of his vulnerability at the time.
In 2017, he also suffered a serious head injury after falling down the stairs at his London residence. At the time, he said: “Sometimes we get a reminder that we’re not invincible, and this was certainly mine. It was a huge shock.
“They think I fainted because I had low blood pressure and so I have got to really take good care of myself to sort that out. After all I am a dad and have more responsibility than ever,” he told his fans at the time.
Amanda Holden has stepped up on Britain’s Got Talent after Simon Cowell’s illness forced him to miss the Birmingham auditions, with Stacey Solomon drafted in as a temporary replacement on the panel
Amanda Holden’s major role shake-up on BGT amid Simon Cowell’s health woes
Producers turned to Holden, 53, as the natural choice to lead the panel, given that she is the only judge who has remained on the show since its launch in 2007. Although Stacey Solomon was drafted in at short notice to replace Cowell during this week’s auditions at the Hippodrome, insiders stressed that Holden had earned the senior role.
A source revealed: “The producers were hugely grateful to Stacey for stepping in, particularly as it was at such short notice. What she did helped ensure the hundreds of audience members were not disappointed.
“But they also thought she shouldn’t just go straight into Simon’s seat as head judge and that Amanda had very much earned that right. And she seamlessly filled the role during the first batch of auditions on Friday, with Stacey slotting right in with fellow judges KSI and Alesha Dixon,” they told The Sun.
It is not the first time Cowell’s sudden departure has led to a reshuffle. When the music mogul left the panel last year after learning of the tragic death of former One Direction star Liam Payne, the then-newcomer Bruno Tonioli stepped in as head judge.
Tonioli has since departed from the programme altogether, replaced this year by KSI, after filming clashes with his role on Dancing with the Stars. Cowell’s absence was first confirmed on Thursday when production cancelled the initial day of auditions.
There were hopes he might recover quickly enough to return on Friday, but he remained unwell. Instead, Solomon took his seat on the panel – a full-circle moment given that Cowell himself auditioned her on The X Factor back in 2009. She finished third in that series but has since become a well-known TV presenter.
And Stacey has shared her excitement after her dream of becoming a judge on Britain’s Got Talent has come true. The Sort Your Life Out star took to Instagram on Friday to share a glimpse of the iconic set of the long-running ITV show after she was asked to step in as a guest judge last minute.
The mum-of-five, 35, took to her Instagram stories to post a picture of the iconic BGT stage with her name in lights. Instead of Simon Cowell’s name, Stacey’s name could be seen on the iconic stage. Alongside the picture, Stacey wrote: “What in the alternative universe is going on. A dream.”
Cowell’s condition has not been disclosed publicly, and it remains uncertain whether he will be fit enough to appear on the third and final day of Birmingham auditions.
Filming is scheduled to resume next week in Blackpool, with producers optimistic that Cowell will be well enough to reclaim his place at the judging desk.
Until then, Holden is firmly established as the figure leading the panel in his absence.
It’s been named as one of the North East’s most ‘magical’ seaside destinations by travel experts, with people travelling miles for the famous chippy and golden sandy beaches
The Harbour View in Seaton Sluice (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)
A Northumberland town has been hailed as one of the most ‘magical’ in the North East by travel gurus. It’s easy to see why, with its golden beaches, charming harbour and a renowned chippy that’s drawn some famous customers – and is always bustling on Good Friday.
The region is overflowing with stunning sights and fantastic activities. From towns and villages lauded as some of the UK’s most desirable places to live, to an Indian restaurant crowned the best in England, and miles upon miles of rolling hills and rugged coastline.
Northumberland also knows how to dish up some highly-rated fish and chips. Nominations were held for the favourite spots in the North East for fish and chips earlier this year, and the ultimate winner was from Northumberland, with Ashington’s V.Gormans chippy taking the top spot.
Seaton Sluice(Image: Design Pics Editorial, Design Pics Editorial/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
But Seaton Sluice’s Harbour View is another spot that has earned high praise, reports Chronicle Live. On Good Friday, you can bet there’ll be a queue all the way down the bank outside this beloved chippy.
The owners even provide live entertainment to keep their waiting customers amused. Among those who’ve queued up for some of Harbour View’s top-notch fish and chips is telly icon Ant McPartlin. The Britain’s Got Talent presenter treated his family to a meal there a few years back.
But Seaton Sluice isn’t just about its premier chippy. Metro Vehicle Hire experts have dubbed it one of the most enchanting seaside spots in the region, alongside Whitley Bay, Tynemouth and South Shields.
Their description of Seaton Sluice reads: ‘The village’s spacious, dog-friendly beach is a beautiful long stretch of golden sand, gifting fabulous views and even the occasional dolphin sighting. When the busier Northumberland beaches become packed, this little gem makes for a scenic escape.’
The impressive review of Seaton Sluice also encourages visitors to do a bit of exploring. Take a stroll through Holywell Dene, follow the path to Seaton Burn and make sure to visit the striking Seaton Delaval Hall.
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KSI became a huge hit as a stand-in on the most recent seriesCredit: ITV
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Simon Cowell with his son Eric who helped him choose the new BGT judgeCredit: simoncowell/Instagram
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Bruno Tonioli quit over his commitments on Dancing With The StarsCredit: ITV
Music mogul Simon was then convinced to give guest judge KSI, 32, a permanent spot on the panel by his little boy who’s a huge fan of the influencer.
A TV insider told The Sun: “Simon’s been friends with Bruno for over 35 years and loved working with him on BGT.
“It was really tough knowing he had to let Bruno go because they couldn’t get the filming dates to work out with his commitments on Dancing with the Stars.
“Simon is always looking for new ways to keep the show evolving and loves to get the opinion of his young son.
“Eric was a big influence for Simon in choosing Bruno’s replacement. He’s obsessed with him and adores him, KSI is Eric’s favourite influencer.
“Plus, he’s been such a hit as a guest judge and Simon recognises they need to keep the show different by moving forward to keep attracting the younger audience.
“Bruno was popular with the grannies, but KSI is for the youngsters.
“KSI has a huge social media presence and Simon knows how important it is to keep the show more modern.”
After being confirmed as the new full-time judge, music artist and boxer KSI said: “I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season.
Watch the shock moment KSI is grabbed by his CROTCH by Britain’s Got Talent act as YouTube star is left speechless
“I had such a good time last year and I can’t wait to see some more top talent.
“I’m full of energy, ready to go, and can’t wait to make this the most entertaining BGT season ever. Let’s do this.”
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Bruno is leaving the BGT panelCredit: ITV
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New judge KSI has already shown that he has a real gift for spotting talentCredit: ITV
Presenting powerhouse Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly have reportedly landed a huge £30 million golden handcuffs deal with ITV which will keep them at the network for three years
Ant and Dec land ‘£30million golden handcuffs deal with ITV’(Image: Getty Images)
Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly have reportedly landed a £30 million golden handcuffs deal with ITV after the channel lost This Morning’s Holly Willoughby. The presenting duo, who have won endless awards over the years for their work, are said to be in talks on a three-year agreement for their shows.
The huge deal would see them continue hosting I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, Britain’s Got Talent, and Limitless Win. An insider claimed the deal with Ant and Dec is a “worthwhile investment” for ITV as they’re widely loved by the public and host “some of the channel’s most successful shows”.
With their 50th birthdays coming up soon, the duo have “double the reason to celebrate”.
Ant and Dec are reportedly wrapping up talks for a £30m deal(Image: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publis)
Speaking to The Sun, a source claimed: “From the ITV execs’ point of view, it also ensures that there aren’t any counter-bids from the streaming giants who are increasingly moving into the light entertainment arena.”
The Mirror have reached out to ITV for comment. It comes after it was reported ITV has been in talks to extend fan-favourite series, I’m A Celeb, until at least 2030.
A TV source recently claimed the broadcaster has plans to secure the series’ Australian jungle location for another five years and if successful, the deal would take the hit reality show up to its landmark 30th series.
The duo host some of ITV’s biggest shows
The discussions would mark a shift in strategy for ITV, which has previously only signed three-year agreements to use the Murwillumbah site in New South Wales.
Negotiations are now reportedly underway with Australian authorities and the Tweed Shire Council, which must approve any extended filming permits.
A source said to The Sun: “The production team are planning five years in advance, which is a long-term approach they haven’t adopted before. But this is not a done deal with the local authorities, and the negotiations have just started to secure the site.
“They’re not taking anything for granted but are hopeful all parties involved will be able to reach some kind of agreement.”
A spokesperson for Tweed Shire Council confirmed talks are ongoing. She revealed: “They will need to seek permission again – we can’t give open-ended filming permissions to anyone.:
I’m A Celeb, which was won by Danny Jones last year, drew in an average audience of 9.1 million in the previous series, making it 2024’s most-watched entertainment programme.
Mark Wildblood, the founder of Hear Our Voice – the choir made up of people impacted by the Post Office scandal – says the initiative has been ‘therapeutic’ after a battle with depression.
The founder of the Post Office choir, who appeared on britain’s Got Talent earlier this year, says the show was ‘therapeutic’ for him(Image: Dymond/TalkbackThames/Shutterstock)
Hear Our Voice, the choir made up of people affected by the Post Office scandal which placed seventh in the recent series of Britain’s Got Talent, are releasing a new charity single alongside band Will & The People.
The single, Falling Down, is a rendition of the song they performed in their audition for Britain’s Got Talent. And choir founder Mark Wildblood says the initiative has been ‘life changing’ for him, admitting the talent show stint has made a significant impact on his mental health.
“I personally have found it very therapeutic,” said Mark. “I was on antidepressants prescribed by my doctor for a long long time and I spoke to them very early this year and I said, ‘Look [the choir] is really starting to make me feel good and I wouldn’t mind trying to go without [the antidepressants].
The choir made it to seventh place on the talent show(Image: Dymond/TalkbackThames/Shutterstock)
“So, at the recommendation of doctors I was told it’s ok to give it a go and I haven’t been back on them since,” he says of the choir’s impact.
Continuing that it has given him ‘purpose’ following dark days, Mark shared, “It’s not difficult to get caught up in dwelling on all of the negatives. So, to be surrounded by the same people that you talk to about it every day and that are seeing the positives as well, I think we’ve done a really really positive thing and a lot of that is thanks to BGT.”
While Mark says the choir has meant he’s managed to let go of ‘anger’ he was holding onto against the post office, he confirms that the ‘concern’ remains. “My concern for the procedure is not eliminated. We still have to make sure that we get closure and closure can only come with compensation.”
Mark was a sub-postmaster at Upton Post Office before he was suspended from the role as one of the thousands of people impacted by the Post Office scandal. The scandal saw the wrongful prosecution of sub-postmasters and postmistresses by the Post Office, who accused them of theft, fraud, and false accounting due to faulty data from the Horizon IT system used by the company.
Despite the choir and the ITV show, Mr Bates vs The Post Office, raising awareness of the scandal, Mark says there is still much more to be done
He founded the choir in May 2024, inviting others impacted by the scandal to take part and raise money for the cause, alongside awareness. As the former tour manager for Will and the People, Mark then enlisted lead singer Will Rendle to get involved as he fronted the act on Britain’s Got Talent.
And detailing how the choir has become a family dynamic, Mark said, “W e always say to each other that we have become family now. The choir is spread out throughout the country and so BGT has given us the opportunity to actually meet five times in a very short space of time and be together.”
Many of the victims are still awaiting compensation from the Post Office, with Mark admitting that despite the success of their campaigning and the recent TV series; Mr Bates vs The Post Office, there’s still a long way to go.
It comes as Simon Recaldin, a Post Office boss who has been backing compensation for the scandal victims, has left his position in the company. Simon is thought to have opted for voluntary redundancy, a move which comes amid the increased pressure on the company to pay victims. Previously, the government announced that those who have had convictions overturned are eligible for £600,000, with hundreds still waiting for the compensation.
“Scandals like these have a commonality where the bureaucracy of closure takes so long that many people pass away by the time that the situations are resolved – I just hope that we don’t get into that situation,” says Mark of those yet to be paid. “We’ve already lost a lot of people in the Post Office scandal and we can’t afford to lose more without getting a speed up, so I would say to those in power, please change the system. It’ll be better for everyone all round and cost a lot less money if they just do it now as it should be,” pleaded Mark.
With fellow choir member Maria Lockwood joking that the unit would be keen to front the Glastonbury stage this summer, Mark says he isn’t opposed to the idea. “We wouldn’t say no to anything where we had the opportunity to get together in person again and Glastonbury would be amazing, that would be phenomenal.”
Falling Down, the single by Hear Our Voice choir and Will and The People, is available on all platforms from tomorrow, 10 June. 100% of profits after costs from the single are going to the Horizon Scandal Fund and Lost Chances—two organisations supporting victims and their families.
Post Office scandal victims are favourites to win tomorrow’s final – as we catch up with all of the finalists
21:13, 30 May 2025Updated 21:59, 30 May 2025
Hear Our Voice set to take their fight all the way to King with BGT victory(Image: ITV)
Post Office scandal choir Hear Our Voice look set to take their fight all the way to the King by winning tomorrow night’s Britain Got Talent final. The group – made up of victims of the sub postmasters scandal, which saw hundreds of lives ruined by the Horizon IT fiasco – are favourites to be crowned victorious.
If they are, they will get an audience with King Charles at the Royal Variety Show. Member Tim Bretnall says it would “take their story to the highest level.” “The absolute best bit of this journey has been the audiences reactions and support, and to be able to feel that for Royalty would be unbeatable,” he said.
Inspirational choir Hear Our Voice are favourites to win BGT(Image: ITV)
“Winning the show would be huge, we’ve all spent so long fighting what’s felt like an uphill battle, and it’s still going on now, but knowing that the public are firmly behind us would mean the absolute world to us.
“It would give our cause a real seal of approval and hopefully a platform to continue to fight for the justice that people deserve, what’s already changed my life is the joy that being in choir has brought.”
Hundreds of sub-postmasters were accused or convicted of theft and fraud due to the faulty Horizon system, developed by Fujitsu and installed by the Post Office.
Their story inspired last year’s ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office. The award-winning show, which starred Toby Jones as campaigning sub-postmaster Sir Alan Bates, led to the quashing of convictions.
The stories of the Hear Our Voice choir inspired hit ITV series Mr Bates V The Post Office(Image: ITV STUDIOS)
One whose conviction for was overturned is Tim, 42, who ran a post office in Roch, Pembrokeshire.
Speaking ahead of today’s final, he says logistics has been the hardest part of the week, not nerves.
“That’s the hardest bit of the choir because we are all from all over the country,” he explained. “Strangely nerves haven’t really come into it, it feels so good to be standing alongside all my friends doing this, we love the opportunity it’s given us.”
Promising an emotional performance, Tim teased what fans can expect. “It’s another song that really speak to us all, how we feel now we’ve come together, it really shows how courage is our talent,” he said. “We’ve been working on this song for months, we hope it will really give a feeling of how together we’ve all been brought by doing this.”
With a £250,000 prize fund also up for grabs, Tim has big plans for the money.
“If we were lucky enough to win we’d split the money evenly between all the members of the choir – after putting a little into saving for my children I plan to give the majority of my share to the 2 postmasters charities – Lost Chances and Horizon Shortfall Fund,” said Tim.
Hear Our Voice are one of 10 finalists performing night. We caught up with the rest of the hopefuls ahead of the finale.
Guitarist Olly Pearson, 11, says her’s overcome a few hiccups ahead of the final.
“I did have a problem with my guitar set up which I had to spend a lot of time working on with my grandad to stop one note ‘choking out’, he explained. But it’s all sorted now!”
Olly Pearson has impressed with his guitar skills(Image: ITV)
Olly wants to treat his grandad if he wins. “First thing I would do is buy my Grandad his dream guitar a USA Fender Strat to say thank you for teaching me!” he promised.
Magician Harry Moulding, 24, is going all out to try win with a never before seen trick.
“All I can say is that it’s going to be the biggest thing that I’ve ever tried to do,” he teased. “I don’t think any magician has ever done this before. And I’m pretty sure that no magician has ever done it on Britain’s Got Talent or on live TV. So just expect for this to be the biggest one yet.”
Swiss dance troup The Blackouts are promising another spectacular light and dance show with a heartwarming message.
“Our final show is called Thank You Britain,” explains Elias. “It’s our way of expressing just how much this experience — and the kindness of the British public — has meant to us. You’ve welcomed us with open arms, and this is our love letter back to you. Expect emotion, energy, surprises and a lot of light — not just in the technical sense, but in the way we hope it makes people feel.”
Glaswegian singer Vinnie McKee, 29, is channeling his nerves and emotions into his performance – which he says will be a tearjerker.
“I’m extremely nervous but more excited than ever before!” he admits. “You will need to have tissues at the ready as I’m doing my own version of an emotional classic that’s never been performed like this before.”
Scottish singer Vinnie McKee has teased an emotional performance(Image: (Image: ITV))
Mum-of-one Stacey Leadbeatter, 29, has big plans for what she’ll do with the prize money if she wins – hoping it will help her grow her family.
“If I was to be lucky enough to win, I promised that I would take my little girl to Disneyland!” she begins. “I’ve promised her that one day I’d do that and this would help! I’d also use the money to help with funding to extend my family by looking into getting IVF and also it would help a great deal towards wedding costs and also releasing my own music.”
Gymnast Binita Chetry, nine, is the youngest finalist of the series – and while she may be small, she’s certainly mighty.
“It’s great because I look small but my performance is as impactful as someone bigger than me,” she said. “I feel the advantage of being the youngest contestant is I get all the love and care of others and that makes me happy. “I want to inspire all the young girls that no matter how young you are if you have a passion for something you can do anything.”
Italian dance troupe Ping Pong Pang are promising an “original, wild, and full of rhythm” show, which they hope takes them all the way to the Royal Variety Performance.
Patrizio Ratto said: “As always, we’ll mix dance, energy, and our unique style with rackets and ping pong balls. Performing for royalty is something beyond imagination. We would live it with deep respect, emotion, and all the wonder we carry in our hearts. We’d just have to polish our rackets a bit first!
Drag opera singer Jasmine Rice, 37, is promising another show stopping performance – and outfit – but says she’s struggled with hay fever in the lead up to the final.
Jasmine Rice has impressed the judges with her powerhouse vocals(Image: Tom Dymond for BGT)
“Aside from the usual pre-show butterflies, this British hay fever has me in a chokehold!” said the New York native, who overcame the secret heartbreak of losing her grandmother to progress to the final. “I landed here and thought my nose was auditioning for a solo of its own. But with that all aside I know now it’s just me, my voice, and that big, fabulous stage.”
Comedian Joseph Charm, 32, says he wants to win the show for his family. The dad-of-two, whose mum got involved by hitting the golden buzzer, shared: “Winning the show would be incredible but nothing will ever trump giving my mum that special moment, that will live with me forever.”
On the prize fund, he said: “That’s a lot of money… it would finally allow me to pay for one month of nursery.”
Rumours have been swirling that the YouTube star may replace dancer Bruno after making a great impression on his first series
Bruno Tonioli gives his honest verdict on fellow judge KSI(Image: Variety via Getty Images)
Guest judge KSI makes a return to tomorrow night’s Britain’s Got Talent amid rumours ITV are eyeing him up as a permanent fixture. He took a seat on the talent show panel for the first time this series, standing in for Bruno Tonioli when he was working in the US.
Not that Bruno feels threatened. He says he’s a huge fan of the YouTube star. “Well we’re both young, attractive, multi-talented stars, known the world over!” teased Bruno 69. “Joking aside, I think KSI is fantastic. I met him for the first time at the BGT auditions in Blackpool and he was such a delight.
The former Strictly Come Dancing favourite says show boss Simon, 65, has been keeping him on his toes all series.
“Simon is a very mischievous man,” says Bruno. “He always has been. When he has that glint in his eye, you know he’s about to be very cheeky. I think it’s partly this quality that makes him so watchable.
“It’s particularly exciting when the show is live – no one know what’s going to happen next and Simon loves that unpredictability – we all do!
“I have it easy when it comes to being wound up by Simon as I sit on the other end of the judges’ desk, it’s Amanda (Holden) I feel sorry for as she bears the brunt of his naughtiness the most. But she’s been sat next to him for so many years and she knows exactly how to handle him. She’s a pro!”
All five Britain’s Got Talent judges, and presenters Ant and Dec, will feature in tomorrow’s final(Image: ITV)
“That woman (Amanda) is a vision, as is Alesha,” Bruno enthuses. “Amanda and I share the same love of clothes and we both dare to bare. I’ll be baring it for as long as I’ve got it, darling. Well into my 70’s.
“The public always look forward to seeing what the girls are wearing, and they never disappoint. Sometimes I might look at Amanda’s outfit backstage and if her decolletage is deeper than mine, I’ll undo another button on my shirt!”
BGT fans have slammed the show after they say the wrong act was given the Golden Buzzer.
Fans of Britain’s Got Talent think that the show is “fix” after a magician, who had a “set-up” performance was awarded KSI’s Golden Buzzer – and nine-year-old gymnast, Binita.
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Harry Moulding performed a magic actCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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The performance saw a couple get engagedCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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KSI gave his Golden Buzzer to HarryCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Fans think Binita should have got the Golden Buzzer instead of HarryCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
He was given the power to press the infamous golden buzzer and send one act straight through to the show’s grand final.
At the start of the magic act, Harry Moulding claimed that he was “going to create a special moment of real magic for one person” in the audience.
The magic act was full of incredible tricks which involved pop star references and predictions before the live show.
His performance then ended with a lady being proposed to by her boyfriend, and KSI was so blown away that he pressed the Golden Buzzer.
But despite the judges being blown away by the performance, fans were quick to say it was a fix.
Fans took to X immediately, with one writing: “What the f*** do they expect him to do for the final now?? Biggest fix ever, magic my bloody a***.”
A second claimed: “Utterly rigged and the trick itself was too grand and ridiculous it shouldn’t even be called magic. I know exactly how he did it, it was rigged.”
And now fans have slammed the “biggest fix” and said that a different act deserved the Golden Buzzer over Harry.
Reacting to Harry getting the coveted Golden Buzzer over nine-year-old dancing sensation Binita, fans took to X to air their frustrations.
Britain’s Got Talent fans left fuming as Golden Buzzer twist is revealed
One person penned: “KSI gave a golden buzzer for this fake proposal while my little girl Binita was actually the star performer.”
Another said: “Binita was absolutely outstanding, unbelievable talent and only 9 years of age, simply incredible, wow. Definitely worthy of the golden buzzer, I hope she makes it to the final, she was sensational.”
“Binita should have had that golden buzzer,” fumed a third.
“Now BINITA deserved a golden buzzer!! Not that nonesense,” echoed a fourth.
Britain’s Got Talent’s biggest ‘fix’ rows
Britain’s Got Talent has been plagued with ‘fix’ rows over the years. How many of these do you remember?
Jasmine Elcock – 2016: Teenage singer Jasmine Elcock stunned the nation with her version of Cher’s Believe. But it then transpired she had already performed professionally in London’s West End. Jasmine, 14, admitted: “I’ve performed in Annie in the West End at about the age of nine or 10, but I really get nervous.”
IrShad Shaikh – 2017: BGT fans were left questioning the rule book when IrShad Shaikh auditioned. He got four red buzzers from the judges, which would usually mean an instant dismissal. Yet in a strange turn of events, they let him continue with his act…and put him through to the next round.
Colin Thackery – 2019: Elderly war veteran Colin won BGT in 2019, but there was an outcry over the final. He warbled his place to win with a version of We’ll Meet Again but fans were furious that escapologist Jonathan Goodwin didn’t even rank in the top three. Viewers felt Jonathan – who almost suffocated while being buried alive in a gravel pit – should have won.
Axel Blake – 2022: Comedian Axel Blake was given a Golden Buzzer in 2022 after making the judges laugh. But fans were fuming when they discovered Axel already had a show on worldwide streaming platform Amazon Prime. Despite this, Axel still went on to win the series.
Taryn Charles – 2024: Singer Taryn Charles is one of this year’s hopefuls lucky enough to receive the Golden Buzzer. Bruno Tonilio put her straight through to the semi-finals following her performance of (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin, but it has now come to light that she is no stranger to TV. Viewers recognised Taryn from an episode of ITV1’s Starstruck, where she impersonated Whitney Houston for judges Olly Murs, Sheridan Smith, Adam Lambert and Beverley Knight.
A fifth then wrote: “You can just tell the producers told KSI before the show to push the golden buzzer for the predictable magician act.
“Binita was the true star of the show and deserved the golden buzzer. Thank god the public voted her through.”
While a sixth said: “Little binita should have had that buzzer.”
And a seventh added: “And KSI golden buzzed a fake marriage proposal… 9 years old. Binita.”
Binita Chetry is just nine years of age and hails from Assam in India.
Showcasing her gymnastic skills on the hit talent show, Binita wowed the crowds during her audition has continued to do so throughout the competition.
Although she did not receive the last semi-final Golden Buzzer, she won the public vote, meaning she has sailed through to the grand finale.
Upon hearing the news of getting through to the final, Binita told hosts Ant and Dec how “thankful” she was.
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Fans think Binita’s performance was worthy of the Golden Buzzer on Saturday nightCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Binita showed off her flexibilityCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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The young gymnast was praised by fans of the talent show for her routineCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
He got down on one knee and popped the question to his partner, who tearfully accepted.
After KSI chose to send the act straight through to the final with his Golden Buzzer, droves of viewers took to social media as they claimed the show was ‘rigged’.
Writing on X – formerly known as Twitter – one fan fumed: “Cowell said this boring idiot is the frontrunner – so if he wins (despite everyone watching losing the will to live) you’ll know that this trashy, s***** programme is fixed.”
Full list of BGT 2025 finalists
THIS is the full list of finalists who will perform at the grand finale of the 2025 series of Britain’s Got Talent
Vinnie McKee
The Blackouts
Stacey Leadbeatter
Olly Pearson
Ping Pong Pang
Jasmine Rice
Joseph Charm
Hear Our Voice
Harry Moulding
Binita Chetry
A second claimed: “That was either an amazing magic trick or there was some absolute collusion going on there. Decent act but had to have been set up somehow.”
“What the f*** do they expect him to do for the final now?? Biggest fix ever, magic my bloody a***,” furiously wrote someone else.
As a fourth added: “Utterly rigged and the trick itself was too grand and ridiculous it shouldn’t even be called magic. I know exactly how he did it, it was rigged.”
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Stacey Leadbeatter will battle to win the 18th series of Britain’s Got TalentCredit: Rex
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The winner will get to perform at the forthcoming Royal Variety PerformanceCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Joseph Charm was one of the acts to receive one of the judges Golden BuzzersCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Simon Cowell chose Olly Pearson to go straight through to the grand finalCredit: Rex
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The Blackouts were the first act to receive the Golden Buzzer in this year’s semi-finalCredit: Splash
The final of Britain’s Got Talent will air on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday, May 31.
Amanda Holden is gracing our screens for Britain’s Got Talent and her new Netflix show. But away from TV fame, she has shared her beauty secrets and life at her ‘dream home’
17:00, 24 May 2025Updated 17:03, 24 May 2025
Amanda Holden swears by one certain beauty treatment (Image: Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Amanda Holden is back on our screens for Britain’s Got Talent as the final of the show fast approaches. But away from her hectic work life, including her new Netflix series, Cheat: Unfinished Business, which was released earlier this year, the TV presenter enjoys a slower pace back in her Surrey mansion.
The 54-year-old has been happily married to her music producer husband Chris Hughes for almost two decades, after they met in the United States. Together, they share two daughters, Lexi, 19, and 13-year-old Hollie.
Over the years, the Heart presenter has retained her bombshell status by keeping fit and up to date with the latest beauty treatments. She even revealed her favourite trick for staying youthful.
As she graces our screens, we’ve taken a glimpse into her lavish life – from her best beauty hacks to eye-watering net worth and family home life.
Amanda pictured in full glam at Britain’s Got Talent semi-final photocall (Image: PA)
Secret to ‘ever-evolving’ marriage
Amanda and Chris first met in the United States in 2003, and got married five years later at St Margaret’s Church in Somerset, followed by a reception at Babington House.
Despite being together for over two decades, she recently revealed why their relationship still feels so fresh. The mum of two explained how happy she is to be in a “lovely, secure relationship”.
She told Hello: “We have ups and downs like everyone else. But when I was looking at the pain and suffering that some of the people we were working with were going through, I felt so grateful that I had somebody in my life with no complications.”
The Britain’s Got Talent judge added: “My husband and I always have this joke where we go: ‘God, our relationship still feels so fresh. Twenty-two years does feel like a long time, but it still feels new to me. I think that’s because it’s ever-evolving.”
Facial she swears by
Amanda shared details of her ‘incredible’ facial (Image: Getty Images)
The TV star has revealed the £700 beauty treatment she swears has reversed her age. It involves sitting down for an hour to get micro-needling, and it’s not for the faint-hearted.
The process includes 24 coated pins which need to be penetrated into the subdermal tissue and coagulate the fat to remodel the face. She boasted about the “incredible” treatment on Instagram and said: “I’ve had collagen wave facials to smooth out my skin ever since @nilamholmes made it available at @dermaspa_mk. It has always given me an incredible lift.
“The other week before filming started on the @bgt live shows, Nilam suggested I try a new natural treatment called Morpheus8! The results have been absolutely amazing. I’ve noticed a real plumpness to my skin and it’s much tighter!”
Huge net worth
Paul C Brunson and Amanda Holden host the Netflix show, Cheat Unfinished Business(Image: Tom Dymond/Netflix)
The glam radio presenter is not only back on Britain’s Got Talent, but is also co-presenting a new dating show with Married at First Sight star, Paul Bronson. Together, they invite estranged couples to have a second chance at love on Netflix.
With her multi-layered career continuing to grow, Amanda now has an impressive net worth of around £3.6 million. While her husband appears to have a net worth of £4.5 million.
She previously spoke about how Chris offers her stability and said: “He’s rubbish at romance, but he’s there for the solid things, such as keeping my car clean and making sure I relax. He’s a proper bloke who looks after me. I’m a strong, opinionated woman, but he helps steer the Mandy ship.”
‘Dream home’
The TV star has shared a glimpse inside her home(Image: mirror.co.uk)
Amanda and Chris reside in the charming village of Cobham in their lavish Surrey mansion, which is thought to be worth around £7 million. Describing her home, she previously told Mail Online: “This is my dream home. My entire life I have wanted the dream home, and you know you do the stepping up and now I’ve finally got it.”
Amanda also shared with The Mirror: “I am house proud, but I’ve got two kids, two dogs and a cat, so it’s a family house. Everything is washable and wipeable. It’s so open plan my littlest can cycle her bike around.
“I don’t have carpets on the ground floor and this is disgusting but I was doing an interview a while ago and my puppy pooed on the floor during the chat. But you don’t worry if you have wooden floors. Two words: wipe clean.”
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.
08:00, 24 May 2025Updated 08:08, 24 May 2025
Bruno Tonioli has issued a defiant response to the BGT criticism
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.”
“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.”
Bruno says he’s shared decades of friendship with his BGT co-stars(Image: WireImage)
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.
And when he’s not filming, Bruno enjoys gardening and cooking (Image: ITV)
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?
Coronation Street fans saw the arrival of new character Molly Kilduff in tonight’s episode as the daughter of Mick and Lou – but it’s not the star’s first taste of stardom
19:00, 21 May 2025Updated 19:45, 21 May 2025
Corrie newbie Molly Kilduff has a famous BGT sister (Image: ITV)
It’s been a dramatic few weeks in Coronation Street and it doesn’t look like things are slowing down anytime soon. In tonight’s episode, fans will be introduced to Mick and Lou Michaelis’ daughters Joanie and Shanice Michaelis, played by Molly Kilduff. Although it may be the youngster’s first time onscreen, it’s not her first taste of stardom. In fact, her sister is a huge Britain’s Got Talent star.
In tonight’s episode, the daughters are seen for the first time, despite having been mentioned many times previously. Making their entrance, their mother Lou tells them they’re going away for a bit. However, Tim takes them to A&E after seeing a cut on Lou’s head.
Last week, Molly’s sister Jade, who is part of BGT sign-language choir Sign Along With Us, took to Instagram to say how proud she was of her sister.
Molly’s sister Jade is part of BGT sign-language choir Sign Along With Us (Image: Jade Kilduff/Instagram)
The star, who appeared on the ITV talent show in 2020, shared a selfie of herself and Molly smiling outside the Rovers, which she captioned: “Could not be prouder of you Molly Moo !! Such a beautiful, funny, confident, talented and above all kind little girl. Shining bright on those cobbles like the star you are.”
Fans showed their support to the new actress in the comments, with one writing: “Ohh she’s adorable. Well done little superstar!” Another echoed: “She’s a little superstar.”
The group left a mark on the BGT judges as they were given a Golden Buzzer by former judge, David Walliams. The group, comprised of 69 members, came second in the competition, narrowly losing out to comedic pianist and singer Jon Courtenay – the first Golden Buzzer act to win the series.
Mick and Lou’s daughters made their debut in tonight’s episode(Image: ITV)
Jade was 18 at the time of entering, whereas her younger brother, Christian, who is also in the band, was just four years old. Jade had started the sign language class after teaching her younger brother who struggles with co-ordination due to his cerebral palsy.
Mick and Lou joined the soap earlier this year – but they won’t be staying long. In March, it was confirmed that the couple would be leaving the soap following the conclusion of a “major storyline” in Summer.
Breaking his silence on his exit so soon, Joe Layton, who plays Mick said: “I knew about it from when the casting came through from my agent, so even for the prep for the tape you take a dive into the psychology of him, how you inhabit these kind of head spaces. I think for me, the opportunity to step into Corrie for six months with a start and a finish point is a real gift.”
