ITV Britain's Got Talent viewers hit out at 'fix' as they spot 'plant'

Britain's Got Talent was embroiled in controversy as the first Golden Buzzer act of the new series was labelled 'a cheat' by ITV viewers. On Saturday night, fans of the show were treated to a performance by singer Sydnie Christmas, who belted out "Tomorrow" from the musical Annie.

But eagle-eyed viewers quickly recognised the contestant, realising she had recently appeared in a popular Andrew Lloyd Webber production. Sydnie's social media confirms her recent roles in the stage play Starlight Express and as Rizzo in Grease. Social media soon buzzed with opinions about Sydnie's fast track to success.

One viewer, Jason, tweeted: "Everyone does know that Sydnie girl is a west end star already.... Cheated her way to that Golden Buzzer! # BGT #Britainsgottalent." Another chimed in: "If we knew it wasn't a fix and professional contestants are 'asked' to come onto the show, I'd say good luck to this lass ... #BritainsGotTalent."

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A different user expressed their scepticism: "Come on, @SydnieChristmas is already a professional, #BritainsGotTalent." And Rebecca added fuel to the fire, tweeting: "And another plant getting the golden buzzer #BritainsGotTalent."

Despite the criticism, there were those who were thoroughly impressed by the 28 year old's talent. A supportive fan posted: "@BGT #sydnie #tomorrow was an amazing performance! Jaw dropped - amazing! #britiansgottalent #BGT."

And @KJCET predicted: "Sydnie. Winner right there @BGT #BGT." Before her performance, viewers got to know a bit more about the contestant who had brought her two grandmothers along for support.

Sydnie, originally from Kent, shared with the audience that she had recently relocated to London in pursuit of her dream to perform on the West End. Currently working front of house at a gym, she made it clear to the judges that this was not her long-term career plan.

Despite initial reservations about her song choice, Simon seemed to have a change of heart after witnessing her performance. The judges were unanimously impressed, giving her a standing ovation and sparking thunderous applause from the audience.

Amanda praised Sydnie saying: "What struck me so much about you is just how naturally funny, how warm, how brilliant your presence was the minute you walked on the stage. How you were entertaining everyone but then you brought us the most heartfelt, beautiful version of that song."

Amanda, declaring it the best rendition of the song she had ever hear before hitting her golden buzzer.