The launch of Britain’s Got Talent’s new series has been thrown into chaos after the first round of auditions was abruptly postponed amid reports Simon Cowell has fallen ill.
Auditions were due to kick off at Birmingham Hippodrome on Thursday, marking the start of series 19.
Just hours earlier, the show’s official X account had hyped the event, posting: “We’re so back… Who’s joining us for the start of our #BGT Series 19 Auditions tomorrow!? And for any late-comers, there’s still time to apply!”
But the excitement quickly turned to confusion after fans began receiving emails saying the event had been cancelled.
“Just had an email to say this is cancelled tomorrow is this correct?” one asked.
Another added: “Err I have just had an email to say the show’s been postponed so you will rearrange our tickets for another day??”
A BGT spokesperson later confirmed: “Due to unforeseen circumstances today’s filming of Britain’s Got Talent has been postponed.”
Insiders have since claimed the decision was made after Cowell, 65, felt unwell.
A source told The Sun: “Simon felt unwell in the last 24 hours. Judges often miss the odd audition because they don’t feel great – Simon, for example, has long suffered with migraines. But it was decided, as this was the first audition of the series, it was best to postpone so we could launch with everyone on the panel. He’s on the mend now – and hoping to be fighting fit for tomorrow.”
The Standard has contacted a representative for Cowell for comment.
Cowell was due to begin the series alongside Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and YouTuber-turned-rapper KSI, who has replaced Bruno Tonioli on the judging panel.
Tonioli, who joined BGT in 2022, stepped down earlier this year citing scheduling clashes with US series Dancing with the Stars.
KSI, who filled in for Tonioli during some auditions last year, has now been confirmed as a permanent fixture.
“I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season,” he said. “I had such a good time last year and I can’t wait to see more top talent. I’m full of energy, ready to go and can’t wait to make this the most entertaining BGT season ever.”
Tonioli, meanwhile, wished his replacement well, saying: “After three incredible series, I’ve sadly had to walk away from a job which has opened my eyes to so much incredible talent. I will miss the chaos and joy that BGT brings… and I know KSI will be a fantastic judge too, as he’s already proven this year.”
