Simon Cowell considering KSI to replace Bruno as Britain's Got Talent judge to attract younger viewers

Simon and Bruno
-Credit: (Image: No credit)


KSI is rumoured to be joining the Britain's Got Talent judging panel.

In a surprising twist, the famous YouTuber is reportedly being considered to fill in for Bruno Tonioli during some of the auditions.

The 68-year-old Strictly Come Dancing favourite might have to miss several dates due to his commitments across the pond on Dancing with the Stars, prompting show supremo Simon Cowell to eye up the 30 year old boxer-and-rapper to draw in younger viewers.

The ITV talent show usually airs from April to June, but there are plans to adjust filming dates so that it can take over the slot usually occupied by Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, which wrapped up earlier this year.

An insider revealed to The Sun about Simon's interest in KSI: "Simon Cowell knows KSI is a huge hit with the younger generation. He would be a great addition to pull in teenage fans, which is something the producers are keen to do. KSI is chatting to bosses in the hope of agreeing a deal that would also work with his hectic schedule."

There were initial whispers that Bruno might have to bow out of the show completely due to the rescheduled filming, with comedian Alan Carr previously named as a potential new face on the judging panel alongside stalwarts Simon, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon, reports the Mirror.

KSI
KSI is said to be joining the Britain's Got Talent team as a judge -Credit:Getty Images

Simon Cowell has recently addressed rumours, stating: "I don't know where all this stuff comes from. I spoke to the producers literally two weeks ago about there [being] a scheduling issue with Bruno. Because we're doing the auditions - some of the auditions - this year and he's going to be in America. So maybe there'll be a stand-in for him. I don't know. But I love Bruno on the show. I think he's brilliant."

While chatting with Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston on Heart Breakfast, the affectionate father Simon also said: "He knows so much about what he's talking about. And actually, he's a brilliant, brilliant judge and the nicest person. So no, I would not replace him. He's coming back."

On the topic of Amanda's future, he quipped: "Well, look, let's celebrate her past."

Cowell continued, expressing his gratitude towards Amanda's contributions: "I want to say how much Amanda has brought to the show over the years. I mean, seriously, no, and it will be... it won't be easy to replace you but I just want to say publicly thank you.

"Can I be honest with you? I wouldn't change this judging panel, I think it is something... it's like your show, you're number one. So why would I change BGT?"

Bruno couldn't hide his excitement about joining the show, remarking: "I enjoyed it so much! And as long as they want me, I'm on it, because obviously I haven't done it before and they allow me to be myself.

"They have all been so supportive, and for me, every show is an adventure, and that's how I approach it. One day to the next is never the same! That's why it's so exciting to be a part of."

ITV and KSI's representatives have been contacted for a statement.

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