Seventeen years after captivating the nation on Britain's Got Talent, winner George Sampson is showcasing a dramatically different appearance as he prepares for the festive pantomime season.
From Teen Sensation to Stage Star
The dancer, who was just 14 years old when he won the ITV talent show in 2008, is set to star in Sleeping Beauty at the Rhyl Pavilion this winter. He will perform alongside actress Sherrie Hewson, with fellow BGT alum Jon Courtenay also in the cast.
Sampson shot to fame with his energetic street dance routines, winning over judges and the public alike. His success led to a professional partnership with Simon Cowell, a debut in the West End, and a foray into music and DVD releases.
A Prince's New Look
Recent images from the panto production reveal Sampson, now 32, with long hair and a princely cape, a stark contrast to his clean-cut teenage image. He has also sported an impressive moustache and glasses in casual social media snaps, often seen with his beloved dogs.
This marks another chapter in a varied career that has seen him transition from dancing to acting, with roles in StreetDance 3D, Waterloo Road, and Emmerdale. Pantomime is familiar territory, having previously appeared in productions like Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella, and Snow White.
Candid Confessions and Personal Changes
Sampson has been open about the efforts behind his changing appearance. He has candidly discussed undergoing three hair transplant procedures, spending around £9,000 on the first two.
He revealed on This Morning that a receding hairline made him feel like "an old man with a babyface," and he was inspired by footballer Wayne Rooney's own restoration journey. Sampson also attributed hair loss to stress, heredity, and the physical impact of his dance moves, alongside a diagnosis of alopecia.
Beyond his hair, the former poster boy for youthful charm now displays full tattoo sleeves, completing a visual transformation that has surprised many fans who remember his 2008 audition.
