Musician, YouTuber, and boxer KSI has been announced as a full-time judge on Britain’s Got Talent, with Bruno Tonioli quitting the show.
KSI will join returning judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon for the 19th series.
Meanwhile, former Strictly judge Bruno has confirmed he will be stepping back from the upcoming series due to scheduling conflicts as he returns to the US to film the next season of Dancing with the Stars.
KSI stepped in as a guest judge for season 18, which aired early this year, and he got off to a flying start, since it was his live show Golden Buzzer act, Harry Moulding, who was crowned the winner, bagging the £250,000 cash prize and a spot on the bill of the Royal Variety Performance.
The viral star, 32, whose real name is Olajide ‘JJ’ Olatunji, said of becoming a permanent member of the BGT family: ‘I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season.
‘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.’
Bruno also said of his departure: ‘After three incredible series, I’ve sadly had to walk away from a job which has opened my eyes to so much incredible talent and step down as a judge on BGT. And whilst I look forward to filming a new series of Dancing with the Stars in the US, I will miss the chaos and joy that BGT brings, as well as all the wonderful people I’ve had the privilege of working with.
‘They truly are a brilliant team who make brilliant television, and I know KSI will be a fantastic judge too, as he’s already proven this year.’
After news of Bruno’s exit broke, BGT viewers took to social media to express their thoughts on the switch-up.
Many branded KSI an ‘amazing’ choice as a successor, but said Bruno and his hilarious antics ‘will be missed’.
‘I actually loved his energy and enthusiasm. I’m gonna miss him for sure. Big thanks to Bruno!’, commented @ume_shu1345 on the programme’s official Instagram page, where they posted a compilation video of his most memorable moments.
‘Omg im crying rn im gonna miss him so much 😢’, added @walkerlilygrace.
‘Let’s go JJ. Thank god we have him. He was an amazing judge last series and I am so glad he is back full time’, @abs_donnelly_lakita wrote.
An excited @shape.nic3.sarah echoed: ‘YAYYY KNEW THIS WAS COMING !!!!! Bring it 2026 🔥🔥🔥’
Bruno joined the judging panel in 2023 following David Walliams’ departure.
Britain’s Got Talent will resume filming this year, with the 19th series set to air on ITV1 and ITVX in 2026.
Auditions will continue in London on September 6 and 7, with auditions open to any performer, of any age, with any talent, in true variety show style.
Acts can turn up on the day or apply through itv.com/talent. Acts can also apply on video or WhatsApp.
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