It’s official: KSI, the YouTuber, musician, and boxer whose real name is Olajide “JJ” Olatunji, is stepping into the bright spotlight as Britain’s Got Talent’s newest judge. The announcement, made on September 2, 2025, caps weeks of speculation about the future of the ITV talent show’s judging panel and marks a significant moment in the program’s nearly two-decade run.
KSI will join Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon for the 19th series, set to air in 2026. He replaces Bruno Tonioli, the exuberant Italian choreographer and television personality, who confirmed he will not return due to a clash with his commitments on the U.S. show Dancing With The Stars. Tonioli’s exit, after three lively seasons, leaves big shoes to fill, but the show’s producers and fellow judges are confident KSI is the man for the job.
The move is hardly out of the blue. KSI already made waves as a guest judge during the 2025 season, stepping in when Tonioli was away filming in the U.S. His infectious energy and keen eye for talent quickly won over viewers and the BGT team alike. And, as fate would have it, KSI’s golden buzzer pick, magician Harry Moulding, went on to win the series, pocketing a £250,000 cash prize and a coveted spot at the Royal Variety Performance. That’s not a bad track record for a newcomer.
In a playful Instagram video celebrating the news, KSI is seen daydreaming about pressing the show’s iconic big red buzzer, judging unsuspecting members of the public before FaceTiming Simon Cowell. Cowell, never one to pass up a dramatic moment, asks, “Please come back as a full time judge on BGT in 2026.” KSI’s reaction? A jubilant “Let’s go!” as he’s showered in gold confetti—a fitting metaphor for the glitz and unpredictability of Britain’s Got Talent itself.
“I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season,” KSI said, echoing the enthusiasm he brought to his guest judging role. “I had such a good time last year and I can’t wait to see some more top talent. I’m full of energy, ready to go and can’t wait to make this the most entertaining BGT season ever. Let’s do this.” (The Independent)
His excitement isn’t just for show. KSI’s journey from YouTube stardom—he’s a founding member of the Sidemen, a collective with over 22 million subscribers—to music charts and boxing rings has made him a household name among younger viewers. ITV’s decision to bring him on full-time is widely seen as a move to refresh the panel and appeal to a new generation, while keeping the show’s famously eclectic spirit alive.
Meanwhile, Bruno Tonioli’s departure is tinged with both sadness and admiration. Tonioli, who joined Britain’s Got Talent in 2023 after years as a Strictly Come Dancing judge, brought his trademark flamboyance and warmth to the show. “After three incredible series, I’ve sadly had to walk away from a job which has opened my eyes to so much incredible talent and step down as a judge on BGT,” Tonioli said in a statement. “And whilst I look forward to filming a new series of Dancing With The Stars in the US, I will miss the chaos and joy that BGT brings, as well as all the wonderful people I’ve had the privilege of working with. They truly are a brilliant team who make brilliant television, and I know KSI will be a fantastic judge too, as he’s already proven this year.” (BBC, HuffPost, The Independent)
The BGT team, for their part, were effusive in their praise for Tonioli, describing him as “SEN-SA-TION-AL!” and thanking him for his contributions. His presence will be missed, but his endorsement of KSI as a worthy successor has helped smooth the transition.
For KSI, the new role is both a continuation and an escalation of his involvement with the show. Reflecting on his guest stint, he said, “It was so fun. I just wanted to get as involved as possible and really immerse myself into the space and just enjoy it. And I thoroughly did, the auditions were incredible. There were some incredible singers… who just blew everyone away in front of that audience, it’s just incredible.” (The Independent)
As for the show itself, Britain’s Got Talent is gearing up for another blockbuster season. Auditions for the 19th series will continue in London on September 6 and 7, 2025, and are open to anyone—any age, any talent. Acts can turn up on the day or apply online, by video, or even via WhatsApp, reflecting the show’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. (Manchester Evening News)
Ant and Dec, the beloved presenting duo, are set to return as hosts, ensuring continuity amid the shake-up on the judging panel. Since last year, BGT has aired earlier and for a longer period, taking over the slot once reserved for Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway—a scheduling change that’s kept audiences engaged and ratings high. (HuffPost)
ITV’s decision to appoint KSI is not without risk. Bringing in a star from the world of digital entertainment could ruffle some traditionalists, but the network is betting that KSI’s broad appeal and genuine enthusiasm will help keep the show fresh. His background—spanning music, boxing, entrepreneurship, and viral internet fame—mirrors the kind of versatility and surprise that BGT audiences have come to expect from contestants. Why not reflect that on the panel itself?
Of course, the chemistry among judges is always a wildcard. Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon have established themselves as fixtures, each bringing their own brand of wit, warmth, and sometimes withering critique. KSI’s arrival adds a new dynamic, and fans are already speculating about how his style will mesh with the established panel. If his guest judge appearances are anything to go by, expect lively debates, plenty of laughs, and maybe even a few surprises.
Looking ahead, Britain’s Got Talent 2026 promises to be a season of change and excitement. With KSI on board, the show is poised to capture the attention of both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers. And with open auditions just around the corner, the hunt for the next big star is already underway. Who knows what talents—magicians, singers, dancers, or something entirely unexpected—will take center stage?
For now, all eyes are on KSI as he prepares to take his seat at the judges’ table. As Britain’s Got Talent continues to evolve, it’s clear that the only thing certain is the show’s enduring ability to surprise, delight, and—just maybe—change lives in the process.
