KSI made his judging debut on Britain's Got Talent on Saturday night, as he filled in for Bruno Tonioli
Saturday's thrilling premiere of Britain's Got Talent had viewers buzzing with excitement, particularly due to a surprise twist in the judging panel when KSI filled in for Bruno Tonioli, joining stalwarts Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Simon Cowell. The 31 year old YouTube sensation stepped in for Bruno, who was tied up with commitments to Dancing with the Stars in the US, causing him to miss the Blackpool auditions.
KSI, who is also known for his boxing career, was making his debut as a judge on the show and quickly won over the audience with his vibrant energy and witty commentary. His instant hit with the fans led to calls on social media for him to become a permanent fixture on the show, with many pleading for ITV to bring him back on a long-term basis.
Fans took to social media to express their admiration, with comments like "KSI was made for BGT," and others celebrating his guest appearance: "Delighted that my one of my favourite TV shows is back! Great that KSI is a guest judge."
Another viewer added, "#BritainsGotTalent How hilarious is KSI lmfao can we keep him as a full time judge! ! ! ! '" while another praised the fresh dynamic he brought: "Actually good addition adding much needed fun."
BGT bosses have made a strategic move by roping in KSI as a guest judge, aiming to leverage his massive online following. With 80 million followers across various platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, they're looking to attract a young, tech-savvy audience, reports the Mirror.
An insider shared: "Their new judge doesn't just know a thing or two about entertaining, he has a colossal following who are largely young and tech savvy, which is just the sort of viewer that the show now thrives on."
They added, "BGT isn't just a TV show it's a global internet phenomenon as well, with clips of the various acts being watched a staggering 24 billion times around the world. Which is why KSi is the perfect match, as his music alone has been streamed 2.7billion times."
KSI himself seems open to future appearances, reflecting on his role: "Once I figured out what makes sense and my place, I kind of just ran with it and I got more and more comfortable and came into my own."
According to The Sun., he also commented on the experience, saying: "It kind of reminded me when I perform or even when I'm boxing, I'd hear people screaming, shouting my name," and described the atmosphere as "It was craziness like that, but it was cool.
"Even while I'm sitting there to hear people shout my name and have people asking for a photo and just enjoying the whole experience."
Hinting at a possible return to the judging panel, he said: "I really enjoyed the experience, and I don't know if they want me back. I don't know if I made a good impression. But if I did, and they do want me back, you know, I'm fully down! ".
