KSI confirms he is the new BGT judge as Bruno Tonioli steps down

KSI has been announced as the newest Britain’s Got Talent judge on Monday following his successful stint filling in last year. 

Ahead of the 19th series of the hit ITV show, the YouTube star is set to join Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon on the panel. 

It has now been revealed that former Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Toniolo has stepped down from the panel after three series. 

In a short video shared to his Instagram account revealing the exciting news, KSI admitted: ‘Man I miss BGT’, before calling Simon. 

He was seen in the clip dreaming about pressing his big red buzzer during daily activities. 

Before the music mogul and head judge chatted to the rapper on FaceTime where he said, ‘Please come back as a full time judge on BGT in 2026’. 

Celebrating the news, KSI screamed, ‘Let’s go!’ as he was showered with gold confetti. 

Bruno has been forced to step back from his role on the new ITV series due to scheduling conflicts as he returns to the US to film the next season of Dancing with the Stars. 

Bruno Tonioli 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.’

Bruno joined BGT in 2023 following David Walliams’s departure.

After stepping in as a guest judge for season 18 which aired early this year, KSI proved a huge hit with audiences who witnessed his infectious energy and enthusiasm on screens.

Proving his eye for talent, it was KSI’s live show golden buzzer act, Harry Moulding, who eventually was crowned winner of BGT, bagging the £250,000 cash prize and a spot on the bill of the Royal Variety Performance.

KSI 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.’

Britain’s Got Talent will resume filming later this year, with the 19th series set to air on ITV1 and ITVX in 2026.