Bruno Tonioli has exited Britain’s Got Talent after a modest two-year stint as a judge – here’s why.
The former Strictly Come Dancing judge hopped, skipped, and jumped from the BBC show over to the ITV reality competition series in 2023, where he took over for David Walliams, ultimately featuring in three seasons.
In comparison, Alesha Dixon has been on the show since 2012, while both Amanda Holden and Simon Cowell have been around since the show began in 2007.
The professional dancer, 69, had never watched the Ant and Dec helmed show before he came on board as part of the panel alongside Cowell, Holden, and Dixon, but has quickly found his feet.
He is now bowing out with guest judge, boxer KSI, stepping in as his full-time replacement for the 19th series.
Get personalised updates on Britain’s Got Talent
Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro’s TV Newsletter.
Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we’ll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you.
Speaking to his followers, he confirmed that his exit was due to scheduling conflicts with Dancing With The Stars in the US, which he has been involved in since 2005.
In a statement, Bruno said: ‘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.’
Fellow DWTS judge Derek Hough joked in the comments: ‘You’re all ours. Muahahahah.’ He is also joined by Carrie Ann Inaba and hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough on the show.
Why can’t Bruno Tolioni do Britain’s Got Talent and Dancing with the Stars?
Britain’s Got Talent will resume filming this year, with the next season launching on ITV in 2026. Meanwhile, the next season of DWTS starts on September 16 for season 34.
Bruno’s likely exit was first reported in July when The Sun shared that it was looking difficult to juggle both shows for him.
Last year, KSI stood in for Bruno for some auditions in order for him to make it over to the States for Dancing With The Stars.
This year, after auditions were rescheduled to autumn, the clash became simply unavoidable.
The departure echoes similar reasons for leaving Strictly a few years ago, after trying to balance both shows, both sides of the Atlantic became increasingly difficult.
He told Daily Mail at the time: ‘There is no animosity, it was a mutual decision with both of us saying, ‘Listen, this is not going to work like it used to.’
‘I just couldn’t do the flying anymore. I don’t know how I survived that schedule. To be honest, it’s a miracle.’
Celebrating his promotion, KSI (one of the sidemen boasting over 25 million subscribers on YouTube) 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.’
Not only is KSI popular among the younger demographic, but it was his golden buzzer recipient, magician Harry Moulding, who ultimately swept to victory in the latest season.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
