Jonathan Antoine and Charlotte Jaconelli became opera sensations on Britain's Got Talent in 2012 - but Simon Cowell told them to split up
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Britain's Got Talent has been a launchpad for opera sensations over its 18-year run, with Paul Potts and Susan Boyle being some of the notable stars who found fame on the ITV platform.
In 2012, the show was astounded by the teenage opera duo Jonathan and Charlotte, whose performance prompted a surprised reaction from Simon Cowell, who exclaimed, "Seriously?"
At just 17 and 16 years old, the pair wowed the judges from the outset with their rendition of 'The Prayer'. Simon, known for his straightforward feedback, suggested that Jonathan might be better off performing solo, hinting that Charlotte could hold him back.
However, the duo remained united, even reversing their name order as they advanced to the nail-biting live finals on the memorable date of May 12, 2012.
![Jonathan and Charlotte]()
Jonathan and Charlotte impressed Simon Cowell from their first audition (Image: Ken McKay) Despite their impressive journey on the show, Jonathan and Charlotte ultimately finished as runners-up to winners Ashleigh and her dog Pudsey, a decision that left their fans in disbelief.
After coming second out of 70,000 contestants, an ecstatic Charlotte said, "Oh my God, we came second out of 70,000 people, it's incredible, it's been amazing".
Rumours circulated the following morning that Simon Cowell was keen to sign Jonathan and Charlotte to a lucrative £1 million record deal with his label Syco.
Their debut album Together, released in September 2012, featured Italian versions of songs from legendary artists such as Elton John, Muse, and Queen.
After captivating audiences across Europe on tour and securing another hit record, the beloved singing duo reached a pivotal moment in their career. In February 2014, they decided to part ways as professionals when Sony Classical presented them with tempting solo contracts.
![Charlotte Jaconelli and Jonathan Antoine]()
Charlotte Jaconelli and Jonathan Antoine had an amazing career as a duo (Image: Redferns via Getty Images) On their official website, vocal wonders Jonathan and Charlotte issued an emotional statement about their shared experiences since their days at West Hatch High School in 2006: "We have had the most exciting journey together ever since meeting at West Hatch High School in 2006 and are so happy for each other."
The pair fondly looked back on their remarkable accomplishments, including their time on Britain's Got Talent and their impressive record sales: "To come second on BGT and sell over quarter of a million albums was beyond our wildest dreams."
Jonathan and Charlotte couldn't hide their enthusiasm as they announced embarking on solo careers while expressing sincere thanks to their followers: "To now be offered our own solo record deals by Sony Classical is the most exciting thing ever and we are thrilled to be going back into the recording studio so soon."
Above all, they expressed deep gratitude towards their fans for unwavering support: "For those that voted for us, bought our CDs and saw us in concert – thank you. We hope to see you soon at our own shows. Love Jonathan and Charlotte."
Pursuing new horizons, Charlotte continues to fuel her passion for the stage, captivating audiences with her musical theatre performances. She has lit up the Royal Festival Hall in Carousel in Concert and was part of the premier cast of Heathers on London's West End.
![Charlotte Jaconelli]()
Charlotte has had roles in the West End and regularly posts on TikTok (Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images) Recently, Charlotte has been delighting fans on TikTok, sharing wistfully her journey from Britain's Got Talent fame with a viral post: "Simon Cowell hated me but then he got me Kurt Geiger's for xmas."
In her charming style, she humorously addresses her similarity to the well-known 'Jonathan and Charlotte' pairing by affirming "probably because I am" when commenters suggest the resemblance.
Her most recent performance in Todrick Hall's latest hit Midnight, which debuted earlier in April, was met with an Instagram post where Charlotte said: "This show has been one of the most fulfilling and rewarding shows I've ever worked on."
She added: "I've laughed and cried every day, watched the most talented humans create, and been giddy to see what would happen each day."
Meanwhile, Jonathon is immersed in creating his forthcoming album following a globe-trotting tour and continues to perform for local audiences in Essex.
After going solo and topping the Classical Artist Album chart with his debut record, Tenore, he took to social media recently to show gratitude for his fans. He posted: "Your kindness in allowing me to explore all kinds of music and your superlative taste in good tunes has led the way!!"
![Jonathan Antoine]()
Jonathan has had an impressive solo career and recently showed off a slimmer physique (Image: Gwent Gazette) Jonathan Antoine has also made news recently for his impressive five-stone weight loss. He previously acknowledged his lack of self-discipline but shared an update saying: "I've still got a lot to lose but I'm making my way. I feel stronger and healthier than I have in 10 years, which is a lot."
Discussing his lifestyle changes this year, he added: "This year I've made an active choice. I've felt I've lacked the discipline a lot. When I was out in America it's fast food everywhere."
Reflecting on his condition at the beginning of the year and his progress, he stated: "I was in a terrible state in the start of the year and I've been able to claw my way back doing light exercise."
He concluded by explaining: "For a long time I was just experiencing life, letting life live me, trying to find the next pleasure. Taking control of your own life, grabbing the world with your hands, feels amazing."
