Simon Cowell has revealed that singer Cheryl was once offered a judging role on Britain’s Got Talent but backed out just a week before filming was set to begin. 

The unexpected decision led to Amanda Holden securing her long-standing position on the panel, where she has remained for nearly two decades.

Cheryl’s Last-Minute Change of Heart

As the head judge of Britain’s Got Talent, Simon Cowell has always had a keen eye for selecting the right personalities to sit alongside him on the panel. 

However, in a recent interview, the music mogul disclosed that Cheryl, who was still using her full name Cheryl Cole at the time, was initially meant to be part of the show.

Simon explained:

“We’d offered the role to Cheryl Cole, as she was known in those days. A week before filming, she calls me and goes, ‘I just can’t do it,’ and wouldn’t give me a reason. I think she was freaked out.”

Her sudden withdrawal left the show in a tough spot, with only a week left to find a replacement judge before filming began.

Amanda Holden Secures Her Spot on the Panel

Following Cheryl’s abrupt exit, Simon had to quickly find a new judge. He recalled how he had already met Amanda Holden and was impressed by her personality, humor, and ability to engage audiences.

“I just knew it had to be Amanda because I’d met her and I really liked her, she was very funny and I just thought she’d fit the show perfectly,” Simon said.

His decision turned out to be a wise one, as Amanda has become a staple of Britain’s Got Talent and one of its most beloved judges. Reflecting on their professional relationship, Simon shared:

“Fast forward 18 years and she’s still a huge success and we have become great friends. I do consider her one of my best friends.”

Cheryl’s History with Talent Shows

Although Cheryl never ended up on Britain’s Got Talent, she had a significant career as a judge on The X Factor UK. She joined the show in 2008, where she mentored winners Alexandra Burke and Joe McElderry. Her presence on the judging panel was well received, and she remained on the show until 2011.

She later made a brief move to the US version of The X Factor, but her time there was cut short when she left during the audition stages. Cheryl eventually returned to the UK version of The X Factor for two more series before stepping away from the judging panel.

Despite never officially joining Britain’s Got Talent as a judge, Cheryl did make an appearance on the show in 2014 as a performer. Additionally, she took on guest mentoring roles on The X Factor in 2012 and 2017 and later became a dance captain on BBC’s The Greatest Dancer.

KSI Joins Britain’s Got Talent as a Guest Judge

As Britain’s Got Talent gears up for its 18th series, fans can expect some fresh faces on the judging panel. One of the most exciting additions is social media star and musician KSI, who has been announced as a guest judge for this season.

Expressing his excitement about joining the iconic show, KSI released a statement saying:

“I’m so excited to be a guest judge for BGT. When I got the call up, I couldn’t believe it. I remember watching old BGT episodes and going from being amazed to laughing my [expletive] off. I’m buzzing to see all the fresh new talent, and I’ll be sure to leave a mark.”

His presence on the panel is expected to bring a fresh and modern perspective to the competition, especially given his massive influence in music, boxing, and online entertainment.

The Legacy of Britain’s Got Talent

As Britain’s Got Talent prepares for its latest season, the show continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. With long-standing hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly returning, along with judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and Bruno Tonioli, the series remains one of the UK’s most beloved entertainment shows.

While Cheryl may have chosen to walk away from a judging role at the last minute, Amanda’s enduring presence on the show has proven to be one of Simon Cowell’s best decisions. Now, with KSI adding a fresh dynamic to the panel, fans can look forward to another season of jaw-dropping performances and unforgettable moments.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.