Bruno Tonioli’s future on Britain’s Got Talent has finally been confirmed.

In recent days, there had been speculation that the former Strictly Come Dancing judge would be replaced by comedian Alan Carr. Now, head judge and the show’s creator, Simon Cowell, has spoken out about the speculation and confirmed the line-up for the next series of the talent show.

Rumours had claimed that Bruno “may not be able to take part” in the next series due to prior commitments he had in America. “He’s committed to the US, but the new format for BGT is non-negotiable because the show will effectively be replacing Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway,” a source said.

But Simon has now spoken out, saying: “I don’t know where all this stuff comes from. I spoke to the producers literally two weeks ago about there [being] a scheduling issue with Bruno. Because we’re doing the auditions – some of the auditions – this year and 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.”

Simon Cowell has confirmed the line-up for next year’s Britain’s Got Talent ( 
Image:
ITV)

The judges will definitely be returning ( 
Image:
PA)
Speaking to his co-star Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston on Heart Breakfast, Cowell added: “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. He’s coming back.” When asked about Amanda’s future, he joked: “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, no, and it will be… it won’t be easy to replace you but I just want to say publicly thank you. 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?” he added.

A source told The Sun that “conversations have only just begun”, but hinted at Alan’s potential involvement: “Alan Carr is a name that has been mooted – his chemistry with Amanda is already a winning formula – and he would bring a fantastic comic edge to the panel.” According to The Sun, a final decision is expected in the coming weeks.

Bruno has previously expressed his joy of being part of the line-up, saying: “I enjoyed it so much! And as long as they want me, I’m on it, because obviously I haven’t done it before and they allow me to be myself. They have all been so supportive, and for me, every show is an adventure, and that’s how I approach it. One day to the next is never the same! That’s why it’s so exciting to be a part of.”