Britain's Got Talent 2026: When the new 'bigger, bolder and weirder' series starts and who the judges are this year
There's a new judge in town and he's raring to goBritain’s Got Talent is back with yet more wild, wacky and awe-inspiring acts – but when does the new series start?
ITV has now confirmed we are just days away from the popular show returning for a brand new run.
There’s a new judge on the panel and a hoard of acts desperate to impress them all with their skills.
But are you ready for it? We are!
Here’s everything you need to know about the new series of Britain’s Got Talent, including who the judges are and when it starts.
Britain’s Got Talent 2026: Where is Bruno Tonioli?
There’s been a big switch up with the judging panel for the 2026 series of Britain’s Got Talent.
The shake-up comes following Bruno Tonioli’s departure from the show last year. It was revealed in September 2025 that Bruno was stepping down from the show after three years on the panel.
Bruno has blamed scheduling conflicts for his exit. In a statement, the former Strictly Come Dancing judge said the BGT filming schedule clashed with his commitments as a judge on Dancing With The Stars in America.
The Italian dancer 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.”
Who are the 2026 Britain’s Got Talent judges?
BGT bosses wasted no time in announcing Bruno’s replacement following his exit. This year, KSI – real name Olajide Olayinka Williams Olatunji – will be a permanent fixture on the panel.
The internet star, musician and Sideman member stood in for Bruno on several occasions last year while the judge was in the US. He was also invited to perform at last year’s Britain’s Got Talent final in May.
Bruno has described KSI as a “fantastic” replacement. KSI, meanwhile, said of his new job: “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 fans will be pleased to learn that there are no other changes to the panel. Simon Cowell will be returning, along with Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon.
What can you expect from the BGT auditions?
Britain’s Got Talent bosses have already given us a sneak peek of this year’s series. A trailer for the show credits this year’s run as being “bigger, bolder and weirder” than ever.
There’s footage of dog acts, stunt riders on BMX bikes, acrobats, singers and dance troops.
But all the members of one of the dance groups are dressed as The Joker from Batman. And someone else appears to be dressed up as a giant cockerel…
Simon can be heard saying “I think this is going to be big” as he reaches forwards and slams down the Golden Buzzer.
KSI can also be seen pressing the Golden Buzzer… with his foot! The new judge shows his approval for one act by climbing onto the panel’s desk and stomping on the big gold button.
When does Britain’s Got Talent 2026 start?
ITV has today revealed the start date for this year’s Britain’s Got Talent. And you really don’t have long to wait!
The launch show will be filling the gap of The Masked Singer, which finishes for 2026 with its grand final this weekend.
This means the first episode of the new series will air on ITV1 and ITVX on Saturday February 21.
To celebrate the news, the official Britain’s Got Talent Instagram account has posted a countdown to the big day. Alongside it is the tease: “BGT returns…”
Hands up, who’s excited?
