London, June 3, 2025 — The 18th season finale of ITV's "Britain's Got Talent" (BGT) has become the most-watched yet most controversial episode in the show's history. Magician Harry Moulding's victory has sparked a wave of criticism from viewers, leading to allegations of favoritism and a significant drop in viewership ratings.
Record Low Viewership
Despite the show's longstanding popularity, the 2025 finale attracted only 4.1 million viewers, marking the lowest finale ratings since BGT's inception in 2007. This figure represents a decline of over one million viewers compared to the previous year's finale . The drop in live viewership has raised concerns about the show's future and its ability to engage audiences.
Harry Moulding's Controversial Win
Harry Moulding, a 24-year-old magician from Blackpool, secured the £250,000 prize and a spot at the Royal Variety Performance. His final act, which involved a dramatic skydive and card trick, impressed the judges and earned him 27.1% of the public vote . However, many viewers questioned the fairness of his win, citing the extended airtime and elaborate production of his performance.
Accusations of Favoritism and 'Fix' Claims
Social media platforms were inundated with accusations that the show was "fixed" to favor Moulding. Critics pointed out that his performance lasted significantly longer than those of other finalists, suggesting preferential treatment . Additionally, some viewers were disappointed that fan-favorite acts like the choir "Hear Our Voice," composed of victims of the Post Office scandal, did not make it to the top three.
ITV's Response
In response to the backlash, an ITV spokesperson stated that the show peaked at 4.9 million viewers on the night of the finale and that streaming numbers on ITVX have increased by nearly 30% compared to the previous series . The network emphasized that the voting process was transparent and that Moulding's win reflected the public's choice.GB
Looking Ahead
As "Britain's Got Talent" faces scrutiny over its credibility and declining viewership, the show's producers may need to reassess their approach to ensure fairness and regain audience trust. The controversy surrounding Moulding's win serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and equal treatment in competitive reality television.
