Britain’s Got Talent is back for its 19th series in 2026, kicking off on February 21 with fresh auditions that have already delivered emotional highs, jaw-dropping surprises, and plenty of viral moments.
Hosted by the unstoppable Ant & Dec, the judging panel features Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and newcomer KSI, whose energetic reactions (including stomping on the Golden Buzzer) have added extra excitement.
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Join NowThe auditions, filmed in Birmingham and Blackpool, showcase incredible diversity—from gravity-defying acrobatics and teen magic to heartfelt singing, drone spectacles, and unique dance.
With episodes airing weekly on ITV and ITVX, the season is building momentum fast. Here, we spotlight the standout contestants so far, including the two confirmed Golden Buzzer acts who are straight through to the semi-finals. Stay tuned as more auditions roll out!
Meet the Judges and Hosts for BGT 2026
Ant & Dec return as hosts, bringing their signature banter and crowd energy. The judges’ lineup is strong:
- Simon Cowell — The veteran spotter of game-changing talent, emotional in Week 1.
- Amanda Holden — Often called the “Queen of Buzzers,” quick with standing ovations.
- Alesha Dixon — Supportive of unique and heartfelt acts, getting emotional over powerful messages.
- KSI — The new addition bringing youth, social media vibe, and over-the-top enthusiasm (his foot-stomp Golden Buzzer went viral).
Guest judge Stacey Solomon filled in briefly during early tapings when Simon was unwell. The panel’s chemistry is electric, with tears, laughs, and big reactions fueling the show’s magic.
The Golden Buzzer Acts – Automatic Semi-Finalists
Each judge gets one Golden Buzzer to send an act directly to the semi-finals—no voting needed. So far, two have been awarded:
- Paul Nunnari (Simon’s Golden Buzzer)
A 52-year-old Australian former Paralympian and dad-of-three, Paul performs mesmerizing wheelchair aerial silks. His routine was gravity-defying, emotional, and inspirational—Simon called it one of the most incredible things he’s seen, pressing the buzzer after being left speechless. Paul aimed to “rock our pants off” and delivered, earning huge praise for his bravery and skill. - Rafferty Coope (KSI’s Golden Buzzer)
Just 16 from Winchester, this young magician blended magic with music. His act included a coin through glass, levitating phone, and a card trick spelling out notes to play “Don’t Stop Believin'” on piano. KSI was so hyped he jumped on the desk and stomped the buzzer—pure excitement! Rafferty’s youthful energy and talent made him an instant fan favorite.
Top Viral and Standout Auditions So Far
The early episodes (Weeks 1 and 2) have packed in memorable performances. Here’s a roundup of highlights:
Week 1 Standouts
- Fraser Penman — Turned his rare condition into a magical, inspiring lesson that wowed Simon.
- Liwei Yang — Unique and shocking performance leaving judges stunned.
- Sadeck and LMA — Delivered high-energy dance with a fresh twist.
- Celestial — Lit up Blackpool with a spectacular “Best of British” drone show.
- Emma Nuule — Emotional vocals that set a strong tone.
- Noah Kelly and The Chicken — Brought fun, comedic vibes.
- Others like John Danbury, Chance, Dom & Ninja, and Sunrise Baton added variety with singing, impressions, and baton twirling.
Week 2 Standouts
- Niamh Noade — 17-year-old from Co Armagh, a singing harpist who reimagined Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” with angelic vocals and Celtic/electric harp. Quiet confidence earned a full standing ovation; KSI loved the fresh take, and Simon admitted she made him like the harp!
- Macshane & Delby — Fast, energetic rappers bringing fire.
- SOS — Powerful group performance.
- Jojo Wills, Claire Spiller, Sonny Green, Baron & Vesper, and Yubio — Added emotional, quirky, and specialty acts.
- Unseen/on-air bonuses like Nakira (Whitney Houston-style vocals) and Inverdance (dance group) have fans buzzing online.
Table of Key Contestants & Early Results (Auditions Phase)
| Contestant | Act Type | Episode/Week | Key Highlight / Result | Golden Buzzer? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Nunnari | Wheelchair Aerialist | Week 1 | Mesmerizing silks routine; emotional | Yes (Simon) |
| Rafferty Coope | Magician | Week 2 | Music-magic fusion; viral stomp | Yes (KSI) |
| Niamh Noade | Singing Harpist | Week 2 | Angelic “Ordinary” cover; standing ovation | No (Advanced?) |
| Fraser Penman | Magical/Inspirational | Week 1 | Turned condition into lesson; wowed judges | No |
| Celestial | Drone Show | Week 1 | “Best of British” spectacle in Blackpool | No |
| Sadeck and LMA | Dance | Week 1 | High-energy with a difference | No |
| Liwei Yang | Unique Performance | Week 1 | Shocking and unexpected | No |
| Emma Nuule | Singer | Week 1 | Emotional vocals | No |
| Macshane & Delby | Rappers | Week 2 | Fast-paced energy | No |
| Nakira | Singer | Week 2 (Unseen) | Powerful covers | No |
Note: As of early March 2026, auditions are ongoing—results mean advanced to next round or standout reception. Semi-finals pending; more acts expected.
What to Expect Next in Britain’s Got Talent 2026
Auditions continue, so expect more Golden Buzzers (Amanda and Alesha still have theirs) and wilder acts. Semi-finals and live shows loom—tickets for live events may drop soon via official channels.
Early predictions? Inspirational stories like Paul or young phenoms like Rafferty and Niamh could dominate. With KSI’s fresh vibe, this season feels revitalized compared to past ones.
Catch episodes on ITV/ITVX, follow @BGT for clips, and watch for updates—who will claim the crown?
Conclusion
Series 19 of Britain’s Got Talent is off to a spectacular start, blending heart, shock, and pure talent.
From Paul’s defiant aerials to Rafferty’s magic and Niamh’s heavenly harp, these early contestants remind us why BGT captivates millions.
Don’t miss the next episodes—what surprises await? Share your favorites below and stay tuned for more highlights as the season unfolds!
