Ciao, BRUNO!

BRUNO TONIOLI on how he's breaking all the rules with his exciting new judging role on Britain's Got Talent

- VICTORIA WILSON

BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT

NEW SAT, 8PM, & SUN, 7.45PM, ITV1 ENTERTAINMENT 

There’s an extra buzz of excitement in the air as this year’s Britain’s Got Talent auditions kick off at the London Palladium. Hosted again by Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, the 16th season of the ever-popular ITV1 entertainment extravaganza will see flamboyant Italian choreographer and former Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli replace David Walliams as a panellist, joining returnees Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden.

After arriving in the auditorium to rapturous applause, Bruno’s trademark enthusiasm is soon causing chaos all round – much to everyone’s delight! So TV Times couldn’t wait to later catch up with the 67-year-old star for an exclusive interview to see how he’s settling in…

What appealed to you about becoming a judge on this show?

I wanted to join BGT because of the fantastic range of talents on display – singers, dancers, comedians, magicians, acrobats… It’s like being part of Ziegfeld Follies, those big variety theatre shows that were very popular in the 1900s [in America] that you don’t see any more. The talent we’ve had has been incredible. Some acts are truly inspiring – and some are absolutely bonkers!

Your new role reunites you with former Strictly contestant and judge Alesha Dixon. How have you found working with her again, along with Simon Cowell and Amanda Holden?