YOUTUBE star KSI has been announced as Bruno Tonioli’s replacement on Britain’s Got Talent – after Simon Cowell got advice from an unlikely source.
The head judge turned to his 11-year-old son Eric for advice about who should take over from the professional dancer who had to quit due to filming clashes with Dancing With The Stars in the US.
KSI became a huge hit as a stand-in on the most recent series[/caption]
Bruno Tonioli quit over his commitments on Dancing With The Stars[/caption]
Music mogul Simon was then convinced to give guest judge KSI, 32, a permanent spot on the panel by his little boy who’s a huge fan of the influencer.
A TV insider told The Sun: “Simon’s been friends with Bruno for over 35 years and loved working with him on BGT.
“It was really tough knowing he had to let Bruno go because they couldn’t get the filming dates to work out with his commitments on Dancing with the Stars.
“Simon is always looking for new ways to keep the show evolving and loves to get the opinion of his young son.
“Eric was a big influence for Simon in choosing Bruno’s replacement. He’s obsessed with him and adores him, KSI is Eric’s favourite influencer.
“Plus, he’s been such a hit as a guest judge and Simon recognises they need to keep the show different by moving forward to keep attracting the younger audience.
“Bruno was popular with the grannies, but KSI is for the youngsters.
“KSI has a huge social media presence and Simon knows how important it is to keep the show more modern.”
KSI also showed he had a real gift for spotting talent because it was his live show golden buzzer act, Harry Moulding, who was crowned winner of BGT, bagging the £250,000 cash prize and a place performing at the Royal Variety Performance.
After being confirmed as the new full-time judge, music artist and boxer KSI said: “I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season.
“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.”
Bruno is leaving the BGT panel[/caption]
New judge KSI has already shown that he has a real gift for spotting talent[/caption]