As Britain’s Got Talent launches another thrilling season, fans are once again captivated by the impressive acts, star-studded judging panel, and the dynamic duo, Ant and Dec. 

But while the show appears polished on-screen, the reality behind the scenes is filled with surprising secrets, long wait times, and quirky habits of the judges. 

From pre-show rituals to wardrobe controversies, here’s a look at some behind-the-scenes revelations from the hit ITV talent competition.

Pre-Audition Challenges and Lengthy Waits

Hopeful contestants don’t simply walk onto the Britain’s Got Talent stage before Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, 

Alesha Dixon, KSI, and Bruno Tonioli. Instead, they must first pass a producer round, which has been described as both nerve-wracking and awkward. 

Ashley Glazebrook and Glen Murphy from the street dance duo Twist and Pulse, winners of Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions in 2019, shared their experience of this process. Ashley recalled performing their routine in front of a single producer with only a small TV in the background, making it feel more like an informal test than a real audition.

The process doesn’t get easier on the day of the audition either. Contestants reportedly spend up to six hours waiting outside before they get the chance to showcase their talent. This lengthy wait, often spent in harsh weather conditions, adds to the pressure of delivering a flawless performance once on stage.

Simon’s Unusual Pre-Show Fitness Ritual

Head judge Simon Cowell has recently revived an old pre-show ritual—doing push-ups before taking his seat at the judging panel. Fellow judge Amanda Holden revealed that Simon, now 64, has been dedicated to his fitness routine backstage, attempting to keep up with the energetic Bruno Tonioli.

Bruno, 68, confirmed that Simon has always been particular about his pre-event workouts. Reminiscing about their past, he recalled that decades ago, Simon would perform push-ups before nights out in Majorca, making sure he looked his best before stepping out. Simon admitted that he now incorporates push-ups into his routine whenever he has spare time backstage, ensuring he stays in shape during long filming days.

Amanda’s ‘Chest Inspection’ Before Going Live

Amanda Holden’s wardrobe choices have been a recurring topic of debate among Britain’s Got Talent viewers, frequently drawing Ofcom complaints for being too revealing. One of her most infamous outfits was a plunging Julien Macdonald dress worn during the 2017 live shows, which received a record number of complaints. Despite the backlash, Amanda has remained unapologetic, stating that she has no plans to tone down her style.

To ensure her outfits are TV-ready, Amanda undergoes a unique pre-show ritual—an official “chest check.” The Britain’s Got Talent team reportedly includes a group of staff members who inspect her outfits before she steps on stage. Amanda humorously refers to them as the “t*t committee,” a group tasked with confirming whether her dress meets broadcasting standards before each live show.

Judges’ Unusual Snack Preferences

While watching incredible acts, the judges like to indulge in their favorite snacks. Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon opt for healthy choices, with bowls of apple slices and other nutritious snacks placed on their desk. Amanda has a particular love for popcorn, while Alesha prefers green juices to keep her energy up during long filming sessions.

Simon Cowell also leans toward a healthy diet, but his snack preference is quite extravagant. His favorite carrots, rumored to be imported from Singapore, are specially prepared for him. Presenter Stephen Mulhern once walked into Simon’s dressing room and was amazed to see perfectly polished carrots with their greenery still attached. Simon’s commitment to these high-quality vegetables is just another example of his unique lifestyle.

Simon’s Red Glasses Explained

One of the more noticeable changes in Simon Cowell’s appearance this season is his red-tinted glasses. While some speculated about the unusual choice, Simon clarified that he wears them due to chronic migraines. The show’s bright lights can trigger painful headaches, and the red lenses act as a filter to reduce their intensity. By wearing the glasses, Simon ensures he can focus on the show without discomfort.

No Photos Allowed: The Fifth Judge in the Audience

For those lucky enough to attend a live recording of Britain’s Got Talent, the experience is far from a quick sit-down event. Audience members play a crucial role in the production, often referred to as the “fifth judge.” To maintain the excitement and integrity of the show, strict rules are enforced—most notably, a complete ban on photography.

A warm-up comedian keeps the audience engaged throughout filming, helping maintain high energy levels despite long waiting times and multiple takes. According to a journalist who attended the show at the London Palladium, filming often runs late due to delays with the judges’ arrival and unexpected breaks. When the audience is finally dismissed, it can be hours later than scheduled.

Final Thoughts

While Britain’s Got Talent appears effortless on-screen, the reality behind the scenes is anything but glamorous. Contestants endure lengthy pre-audition rounds and long waits, while judges have their own unusual pre-show habits, from Simon’s push-ups to Amanda’s chest checks. The show’s strict no-photo policy and audience participation rules add another layer of secrecy to the process. As the latest season unfolds, viewers can enjoy the talent, drama, and spectacle—knowing there’s far more happening behind the scenes than meets the eye.

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