Britain's Got Talent Judge Quits For Good As New Star Joins The Panel

Bruno Tonioli is leaving Britain's Got Talent, and KSI is sliding into his chair. Yes, that KSI — YouTuber, musician, occasional boxer — and, as it turns out, a pretty sharp talent spotter.

So what just changed?

After three series on BGT, Tonioli is stepping away because his schedule clashes with Dancing with the Stars in the U.S. KSI, who jumped in during auditions this past season, is now a full-time judge alongside Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon.

"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."

And the guy has receipts: KSI's golden buzzer act, magician Harry Moulding, actually won Britain's Got Talent 2025, pocketing £250,000 and a spot at the Royal Variety Performance. Not a bad first impression.

Why Bruno is out

Tonioli says the timing just didn't work with his DWTS commitments, and he left on good terms.

"After three incredible series, I've sadly had to walk away from a job which has opened my eyes to so much incredible talent and step down as a judge on BGT. And whilst I look forward to filming a new series of Dancing with the Stars in the US, I will miss the chaos and joy that BGT brings, as well as all the wonderful people I've had the privilege of working with. They truly are a brilliant team who make brilliant television, and I know KSI will be a fantastic judge too, as he's already proven this year."

A quick Strictly detour

Tonioli used to be a Saturday night staple on Strictly Come Dancing. He bowed out in 2021 after COVID travel rules made commuting between the U.S. and UK a headache, and the change stuck. Inside baseball: the panel has since settled with Anton Du Beke as a permanent judge, while Motsi Mabuse — now very much a fan favorite — remains on the dais.

When will we see this?

BGT starts filming again later this year, with series 19 set to air on ITV1 and ITVX in 2026. Yes, the timeline is a little odd — KSI already had a winning golden buzzer in 2025, and now he's officially on the panel for the 2026 run.

• KSI replaces Bruno Tonioli as a full-time BGT judge
• KSI previously stepped in during auditions
• Judging panel: Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, KSI
• Bruno exits after three series due to Dancing with the Stars schedule
• KSI's golden buzzer act Harry Moulding won BGT 2025 (£250,000 + Royal Variety Performance)
• Filming resumes later this year; series 19 airs in 2026 on ITV1 and ITVX