Britain's Got Talent has sparked significant viewer backlash following judge Amanda Holden's decision to award a second golden buzzer during the latest episode. The move has left many fans questioning the very purpose and exclusivity of the coveted golden buzzer moment on the long-running ITV talent show.
Amanda Holden's Controversial Decision
During Saturday's episode, which aired on April 11, 2026, dance troupe World Wings delivered a high-energy performance to a medley of songs, including the popular track Lil Boo Thang. Their routine so impressed judge Amanda Holden that she pressed the golden buzzer, sending them directly through to the live shows. This marked Holden's second use of the golden buzzer this series, having previously awarded it to Jeremy Clarkson's Hawkstone Farmers Choice.
Fan Reactions: From Fury to Support
The decision has not been well received by a vocal segment of the viewing public. Taking to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, fans expressed their disappointment and frustration. One viewer wrote, "Remember when golden buzzers were special? #bgt," capturing the sentiment of many who feel the honour has been devalued.
Another critic added, "What is the point of a golden buzzer if they give one out every episode. I thought they were supposed to be special #BGT." A third commenter suggested, "At this point, the Golden Buzzer is becoming a participation award. Next year, Golden Buzzers for all acts #bgt #BritainsGotTalent." Some reactions were even more blunt, with one user posting, "FFS !!!... Just give every act that Golden Buzzer...You may as well....Pathetic !!! #BGT."
However, not all feedback was negative. Some fans were delighted to see World Wings progress. One supporter penned, "I like them. Nice group of talented hardworking youngsters and I love all styles of dance as an art form - even if overdone on #bgt Happy for them." A second agreed, stating, "World Wings are certainly flying high after that audition. #BGT."
Judges' Praise and Wider Context
On the show, the judges were effusive in their praise. As the auditorium roared with applause, Amanda Holden described World Wings' energy as "amazing," while fellow judge Alesha Dixon likened their performance to a "ball of fire." Simon Cowell also gave his approval to Holden's choice, adding his endorsement to the act.
This series has now seen a total of eight golden buzzers awarded. Alongside World Wings and Jeremy Clarkson's Hawkstone Farmers Choice, the recipients include para athlete Paul Nunnari, magician Rafferty Coope, video projection group Antigravity, comedian Ted Hill, singer Matty Juniosa, and Braunstone Community Primary School.
Recent Ofcom Complaints
The controversy arrives shortly after Britain's Got Talent faced another wave of criticism. The show was recently slapped with over 100 Ofcom complaints following an act by Leroy Patterson on April 4. Patterson demonstrated three "very important safety tips" involving mousetraps, a chair covered in nails, and a weed strimmer, which left him bleeding on stage and viewers reeling. Ofcom confirmed it had received 108 complaints regarding the segment.
Britain's Got Talent continues with its next episode on Saturday, April 18, airing on ITV1 and streaming service ITVX. The debate over the golden buzzer's significance and the judges' discretion is likely to persist as the competition moves toward the live finals.
