BGT’s first live semi-final of 2026 delivered high drama and an emotional Golden Buzzer moment last night.
Singer Matty Juniosa received a dramatic live Golden Buzzer from Amanda Holden, while dog-dancing duo Anastasiia & Salsa won the public vote and joined him in the Grand Final.
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Join NowThe show, broadcast live from London’s Eventim Apollo on ITV1, saw eight acts battle for two spots in the final — with £250,000 and a Royal Variety Performance spot on the line.
Who advanced from BGT Semi-Final 1?
- ✅ Matty Juniosa — Advanced via Amanda Holden’s Golden Buzzer
- ✅ Anastasiia & Salsa — Advanced via Public Vote
The Golden Buzzer Moment: Amanda Holden Picks Matty Juniosa
Closing the show as the final act, Matty Juniosa (who already had Simon Cowell’s audition Golden Buzzer) delivered a powerful, soulful rendition of Aerosmith’s “Dream On.” His big diva vocals and emotional delivery brought the audience to their feet.
Amanda Holden waited until the very last moment — despite loud crowd chants for other acts — before pressing her live Golden Buzzer. She later revealed backstage that if she hadn’t used it, the public vote would almost certainly have sent Matty through anyway.
The moment was heartfelt, with Matty visibly overcome as golden confetti fell. Social media lit up with praise for the “deserved” second chance for the talented Glaswegian singer.
Act-by-Act Recap: Every Performance Reviewed
Anastasiia & Salsa (Dog Dancing Duo)
The Russian duo opened the show with a dazzling stargazing-themed routine. Salsa performed incredible flips, spins, and synchronised moves with Anastasiia. The crowd loved the adorable chemistry — it was cute, technically impressive, and highly entertaining.
Celtic Beat (Dance Troupe)
High-energy group dance with strong Celtic flair and powerful choreography. Technically sharp but didn’t quite create a standout “wow” moment for many viewers.
Christy Coysh (Comedy Singer)
Delivered a hilarious rap/song about Scotch eggs and quirky British life. Got big laughs from the audience and judges, especially KSI, but finished second in the public vote.
Fraser Penman (Magician/Mentalist)
Impressive close-up and mentalism tricks. Solid performance with good audience interaction, but it didn’t stand out enough against stronger variety acts.
Nancy Tilley (Young Drummer)
The 11-year-old powerhouse returned with an energetic drumming routine. Impressive skill for her age and full of joy, but perhaps a little early in the competition.
Paul Nunnari (Wheelchair Aerialist)
The inspirational Golden Buzzer act from auditions performed another emotional silks routine. Technically brilliant and moving, but placed lower in the public vote.
The Rafikiz (Acrobatic Group)
High-flying acrobatics and flips that had the audience gasping. Strong visual spectacle and one of the night’s biggest “wow” performances.
Matty Juniosa (Singer) – See Golden Buzzer section above.
Public Vote Drama: Anastasiia & Salsa Beat Christy Coysh
The public ultimately chose heart and cuteness over comedy. Anastasiia & Salsa edged out Christy Coysh (who came a strong second with his Scotch eggs routine).
The “talent vs adorable dog” debate raged online, a classic BGT conversation. Amanda later admitted she saved Matty because she knew the public would likely back the dog act.
The Judges in 2026: KSI’s First Semi-Final as Full-Time Panel Member
This series marked KSI’s debut as a full-time judge, replacing Bruno Tonioli. Alongside Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon — and hosted by Ant & Dec — KSI brought his signature energetic and honest reactions.
Last night showed the panel’s strong chemistry, with plenty of laughs and passionate debates.
BGT Semi-Final Schedule 2026: When Are the Next Shows?
- Semi-Final 1: Saturday 25 April (completed)
- Semi-Final 2: Saturday 2 May
- Semi-Final 3: Saturday 9 May
- Semi-Final 4: Sunday 17 May (moved due to Eurovision)
- Semi-Final 5: Saturday 24 May
- Grand Final: Saturday 30 May
All shows air at 7pm on ITV1 and are available to stream on ITVX.
What to Expect Next
Matty Juniosa and Anastasiia & Salsa are the first two acts confirmed for the 2026 Grand Final. Next week’s semi-final promises more Golden Buzzer possibilities and tough competition.
Who are you backing to win BGT 2026? Drop your predictions in the comments and tune in next Saturday!
