In a significant development for fans of talent shows, Britain's Got Talent (BGT) has reportedly secured a renewal deal with ITV that will keep the beloved program on air for an additional three years, extending its run until at least 2028. This news comes despite earlier concerns that the show's contract was set to expire this year, potentially leaving its future in question. Auditions for the next series, scheduled for 2026, are already underway, as confirmed by ITV.
Since its debut in 2007, BGT has become a staple of British television, showcasing a dazzling array of acts from across the UK and beyond. Over the years, it has crowned 17 winners, many of whom have gone on to achieve remarkable success. Notable alumni include Susan Boyle, who captured hearts as the runner-up in 2009 and has since sold an impressive 25 million records, and Paul Potts, the show's first winner, who topped sales charts in 13 countries.
The 2024 series of BGT saw singer Sydnie Christmas take home the coveted title, winning a life-changing £250,000 and a spot in the prestigious Royal Variety Performance. This year's competition is still ongoing, with the current series airing on ITV1 and ITVX every Saturday night until May 31, 2025.
Judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden, and Bruno Tonioli have returned for this season, alongside hosts Ant and Dec. However, fans expressed their frustration when ITV temporarily pulled BGT from its Saturday night lineup on March 15, 2025, to broadcast the final Six Nations Championship match between France and Scotland, which clashed with the show's regular timeslot.
Despite this hiccup, the show's future looks bright. Reports indicate that the new deal for BGT will kick off next year with its nineteenth series. While ITV has yet to officially confirm the details, sources suggest that Cowell and his judging panel will remain on screens until 2028.
Simon Cowell, who has been a prominent figure in the talent show industry for decades, recently shared insights into his evolving role as a judge on BGT. He revealed that the birth of his 10-year-old son, Eric, has influenced his approach, leading him to adopt a "softer" demeanor when interacting with contestants. "Ever since I've had a son you start seeing these kids and every time I think 'God, that could be Eric'—if they're like, eight, nine, ten, whatever," Cowell explained in an interview with The Sun.
His co-judge Amanda Holden noted that while Cowell initially softened his criticism, he seems to be returning to his more traditional judging style. "He did go soft for a bit but I feel like he's coming back now. He's up for it, he would never have let anyone throw things at him," she commented.
Since its inception, Britain's Got Talent has been known for its eclectic mix of performances, from singers and dancers to magicians and unique acts. The show has not only entertained audiences but has also provided a platform for aspiring artists to showcase their talents. Many winners have gone on to perform at the Royal Variety Show, a prestigious event attended by members of the royal family.
The show has produced some of the nation's biggest stars, including the dance group Diversity, who won in 2009 and have completed over 15 tours since their victory. Other notable winners include George Sampson, who wowed judges with his dance moves in 2008, and the comedian Lost Voice Guy, who captured hearts with his unique performances in 2018.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming series, fans are eager to see what new talent will emerge and what surprises await them. With auditions already in progress, the excitement surrounding BGT continues to grow, proving that this talent show remains a beloved fixture in British entertainment.
In summary, Britain's Got Talent is set to continue captivating audiences for years to come, with its recent renewal ensuring that the show remains a key player in the television landscape. As viewers gear up for the next series, the stage is set for more unforgettable performances and inspiring stories from contestants across the nation.
