With many viewers left unsatisfied by the standard of some BGT auditions, a wave of backlash has hit the ITV programme. Judge Bruno Tonioli has now responded to the criticism.
Britain's Got Talent judge Bruno Tonioli is brushing off the recent viewer complaints, choosing to concentrate on the talent instead.
The ITV show's finale is set for Saturday, May 31st, and Bruno Tonioli has already picked his favourite. "We've had a variety of talent this year. The Blackouts are insane," he enthused.
However, it's drag soprano Jasmine Rice who has truly captured Bruno's heart, earning her his Golden Buzzer. "That performance was absolutely incredible for me," he gushed, "That was the most surprising, somebody that really rises to the occasion and exceeds all expectations."
Jasmine's story of overcoming rejection in the drag world resonated with Bruno, who at 69, values the power of positive messaging. "Being able to be calm and communicate a message without bitterness and with hope, determination – that's very valid. I found those moments special."
Despite the controversies surrounding acts like stuntman Auzzy Blood, nudist Akira, and Bao Cuong's eyebrow-raising semi-final stunt, Bruno remains unfazed.
"I don't focus on the negative," he declares, dismissing social media chatter with a wave of his hand and advising, Social media? Forget it. "Life is too short," he adds, "Read a book!'".
The Britain's Got Talent judge has expressed his concerns about social media's influence on the youth, saying, "If I had kids, I'd be petrified," and describing it as "It's an alternative universe. It can be fun, but we need strict guidelines, especially for children."
Despite sometimes clashing with fellow BGT judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, and Amanda Holden, Bruno takes differing opinions in stride.
"Shows give you a range of opinions," and adding, "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."
He shares a long-standing friendship with Simon Cowell, spanning 40 years, and insists that any on-screen tension is just part of the act. "When you're on-screen, you play a role," and revealing, "We're both very laid-back people, actually. He's very easy-going. But on TV, you become an extension of yourself."
His rapport with Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon is equally warm. Having known Amanda for many years, he speaks fondly of her, while his connection with Alesha dates back to her days on Strictly Come Dancing, where she was not only a contestant but also joined him as a judge.
Bruno reminisces about their time together, saying, "Alesha was one of our best winners. We have the biggest giggles," though he jokes, "Though I probably exhaust her – I'm always distracting her!".
Bruno never forgets his modest beginnings, having been in the same position as every auditionee. "I have done what they do. I have done auditions and failed them," he shares. "But you learn from your failures when you take it as a way of understanding what you should do to improve."
His experience extends to the coveted Royal Variety Performance stage, a potential highlight for this year's victor alongside a £250,000 cash prize. "I've done it quite a few times over the years," Bruno acknowledges. "Both as a choreographer and a performer."
He also cherishes memorable encounters with royalty, including King Charles and Queen Camilla. "They're both the most wonderful people," he comments. "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!".
With the finale on the horizon, Bruno is already embracing the excitement and amusement. This season showcases the unique allure of BGT, featuring acts like The Blackouts and Olly Pearson.
The finale's line-up boasts the soulful Vinnie McKee, Ping Pong Pang, Joseph Charm, and Maya Giotea, who managed to snag another of Bruno's Golden Buzzers.
Ever energetic, Bruno is open to adventures in acting, specifically as a villain. "I'd love to do dramas because it's another part of me," he reveals.
"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!".
Away from the limelight, Bruno cherishes a peaceful existence. "Every Saturday, I'm in my garden. I love gardening, and I cook!" he shares.
However, this Saturday, all attention will be on the BGT stage as the knockout finalists compete for the title, and anything is possible. But who will capture the nation's heart?
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