KSI could be set to stand in for Bruno Tonioli on Britain’s Got Talent next year in a bid for the ITV talent show to pull in a younger fanbase, a source has revealed.
The YouTuber and boxer, 30, is reportedly in talking with TV bosses to be on standby should there be a filming clash during the 18th series. Audition for the upcoming series is expected to take place earlier than usual next year.
This could mean Bruno’s judging stint on Dancing With The Stars judge could clash with BGT auditions. Thankfully, execs believe they may have found a suitable replacement for the 68-year-old should any hiccups arise.
READ MORE:Amanda Holden replaced on Heart Breakfast as she films new Netflix show about cheating
READ MORE: Click for more brilliant Daily Star showbiz stories
According to The Sun, one insider revealed that TV bosses are in talks with the influencer at the moment. They told the outlet: “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 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.”
It comes after reports claimed Bruno could be dropped from next year’s series of Britain’s Got Talent. The judging lineup could undergo a major shakeup, meaning Bruno could lose his spot on the judging panel for good.
However, Simon Cowell has since shut down rumours these rumours when he confirmed that the Italian chorographer will be returning next year. He noted that although there could be scheduling clashes, the ballroom dancer will be taking part in the show, with a stand-in to fill his slot if any clashes occur.
Appearing on Heart Radio on Wednesday (June 5), the music mogul, 64, explained: “I would not replace him. I love Bruno on the show.” Simon added that there is a problem with Bruno’s schedule next year, therefor he will temporarily be replaced for some of the auditions he cannot attend.
Clearing up the rumours, host Jamie Theakston asked him: “I’m gonna read you a headline from one of the papers today, Simon… Britain’s Got Talent set to drop judge, Bruno.” Simon insisted the headline was false as Jamie pressed on: “Okay, well, what of that isn’t truth?”
The dad-of-one explained: “Seriously. I spoke to… I don’t know where all this stuff comes from. I spoke to the producers literally two weeks ago about there is a scheduling issue with Bruno.
“Because we’re doing the auditions… some of the auditions this year’s 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.”
Fellow judge Amanda Holden echoed: “He brings such an amazing energy and he knows so much.” Simon added: “And 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.” Confirming once and for all, Jamie asked: “So… Bruno’s coming back?” as Simon insisted: “He’s coming back.”
It was at this point that Jamie predicted which TV personalities could stand in for the ballroom expert. The host chucked: “Have you approached Alan Carr?” To which Simon rolled his eyes, noting: “No, Amanda wants Alan.”
“How much of a say does she have?” Jamie asked, to which Simon quickly replied: “No” as Amanda cried: “I have no say.” Poking fun at his co-host, Jamie joked: “Is Amanda coming back?”
Simon teased: “Well, look, let’s celebrate her past. I want to say how much Amanda has brought to the show over the years. I mean seriously and it will be… it won’t be easy to replace you but I just want to say public, thank you.”
Amanda bluntly replied: “Thank you, Simon. It’s been an absolute pleasure. We’ve had fun! I’ve had 18 years of you looking after the mortgage. So thank you.”
Speaking candidly, Simon added: “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?”
Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk