Bruno Tonioli 'to quit' BGT over 'virtually impossible' situation in major blow to ITV

When BGT's Bruno Tonioli was forced to skip filming dates last year, Simon Cowell fought tooth and nail to keep his co-star in the show, drafting in KSI as his temporary replacement. However, it now looks as if his position alongside Simon, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon could prove untenable in 2025.

The news comes just two years after he originally joined as the replacement of controversial David Walliams. A source published in The Sun suggested: "The filming schedule in 2024 meant that Bruno could get away with not being present for filming one week of auditions." However, they warned: "It would be virtually impossible for him to miss two weeks, because in the final edit, that equates to half the episodes in the new three-month run of BGT, which will air from February of 2026."

The source went on to confirm: "There is absolutely no ill-feeling about the situation, it's simply down to changes in the schedule making it incredibly difficult to remain as a full-time judge.

"The only hope is if his long-time friend and fellow panellist Simon Cowell steps in to make it clear that he has to be a part of the show, no matter how difficult it proves to be."

It has been suggested that comedian Alan Carr, who was in the running for the judging role previously, could be a potential replacement if Bruno does leave the show.

The Express has contacted a representative for Britain's Got Talent for comment.

There was also talk of KSI becoming a permanent fixture on the show in Bruno's seat, but, addressing the issue previously, the judge made it clear he had no concerns.

He had quipped: "We're both young, attractive, multi-talented stars known the world over.

"Joking aside, I think KSI is fantastic - a real charming man full of energy. We attended the BRITs together too, which was a fabulous evening."

Meanwhile, auditions for the next round of BGT contestants are expected to take place in Blackpool in October, ahead of the new series on ITV.