The first live semi-final of the latest series of Britain's Got Talent took place on Saturday, April 26, at the Eventim Apollo, featuring eight acts competing for a place in the grand final. This year's show introduced a novel twist allowing either one of the judges or presenters Ant and Dec the power to control the golden buzzer during each semi-final. This buzzer grants an automatic passage to the final for the act chosen, alongside one other act selected by public vote.
During the live broadcast, judges Amanda Holden, Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, and Ashley Banjo, along with presenters Ant and Dec, take turns managing this power. Amanda Holden was the first to hold control of the golden buzzer on this occasion. Speaking on the show about her new responsibility, Holden expressed surprise and some nervousness, saying, "No! Why me first? Well, why have you given me that responsibility straight away? It’s a massive responsibility, I thought [Simon Cowell] would get it because he’s in charge," reports the Express.
The night's lineup included Akira, Auzzy Blood, Eden Choi, Heavysaurus, Teddy Magic, and golden buzzer recipients Linda Mudzenda, The Blackouts, and Vinnie McKee.
However, the fresh format decision sparked significant viewer criticism on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Some viewers took issue with the potential for the golden buzzer to be awarded to the same performer more than once in a series. One viewer commented, "A golden buzzer could go to the same person twice in one series. What a load of nonsense." Others questioned the show's emphasis on the golden buzzer, saying, "They are obsessed with the golden buzzers? ! Why?"
There was scepticism about fairness in the decision-making, with another stating, "Getting the judges to pick a golden buzzer act doesn’t seem fair, of course whoever is in charge if their golden buzzer act is performing they’re going to pick them." Another viewer simply remarked, "They've gone golden buzzer mad. Ridiculous."
Aside from the format-related critiques, some viewers expressed dissatisfaction with the performances themselves. The group Heavysaurus, known for their dinosaur costumes and children’s music style, faced vocal disapproval. One annoyed fan wrote, "Oh FFS why are these bloody dinosaurs in the live shows," while others described the group as "Garbage. Off" and lamented, "Karaoke dinosaurs in a semi-final doesn’t vibe with me." Despite the criticism, some commented that the act would likely be a hit with younger audiences.
Britain’s Got Talent continues to air on ITV1 on Saturdays, with episodes also available on the ITVX streaming service. The new golden buzzer mechanic and the mix of acts have added various dynamics to this year's competition, prompting an engaged and vocal audience.
Source: Noah Wire Services