Britain's Got Talent (BGT) returns for its 19th series tonight, but some viewers believe the show has 'run its course' as ratings continue to fall. The new series, airing on ITV and ITVX from 7pm, introduces YouTuber KSI as a permanent judge, replacing Bruno Tonioli. He joins Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon on the panel, with Stacey Solomon briefly filling in for Cowell during auditions in Blackpool.
Audience numbers for the previous series hit a record low, with around 4.1 million viewers watching magician Harry Moulding win the 2025 final. This was the lowest-viewed finale since the show's 2007 debut, though figures exclude ITVX streaming. The 2025 launch also saw about 5.5 million viewers, down roughly one million from 2022.
Fans on Reddit have shared theories for the decline, citing an over-reliance on 'sob stories', excessive slow-motion footage, and a 'ridiculous' golden buzzer format during live shows. One viewer criticised Simon Cowell's judging, stating: 'Simon as a judge just isn't cutting it anymore... Even KSI is making Simon appear weak at times.' Another added: 'It was over about 10 years ago, I can't believe it's still on.'
Despite the criticism, the show retains a loyal audience, with Ant & Dec returning as hosts. The series was filmed at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, where judges described the atmosphere as especially 'wild'. However, many viewers feel the programme has become predictable, with 'same old sounding singers, choirs and magicians' dominating the acts.
One commenter noted: 'Last year's BGT is noticeably worse... Frankly I think ITV are getting desperate for stuff to fill primetime slots.' The show's decline mirrors broader trends in live television, as streaming services fragment audiences. ITV has not commented on the criticism.
