Amanda Holden Overwhelmed by Jeremy Clarkson's Farmers Choir on Britain's Got Talent
In a heartwarming moment on Britain's Got Talent, judge Amanda Holden was left visibly emotional and in tears as she hit the Golden Buzzer for The Hawkstone Farmers Choir, an act originally brought together by television personality Jeremy Clarkson. The performance, which aired on Saturday night from Birmingham's Hippodrome, captivated the audience and judges alike, leading to a standing ovation and an immediate pass to the semi-finals.
Choir's Touching Backstory and Performance
The Hawkstone Farmers Choir, consisting of 32 farmers from across the country with ages ranging from 27 to 74, took to the stage with a powerful rendition of Elbow's "One Day Like This." Katryna Shell, a member of the choir, explained to the judges that Jeremy Clarkson had initiated the group, stating, "Jeremy Clarkson did a thing... and that thing is The Hawkstone Farmers Choir. Jeremy brought us together to sing, and it's just really been amazing for us all." She highlighted the challenges of farming, noting that each member works alone for up to 17 hours a day, with farming being the unifying force for their families.
Katryna emphasized the choir's significance, saying, "As a family, we've got one thing that unites us, and that's farming. We love what we do, but it can be hard," and added that the choir "meant the world" to the group. Their performance quickly moved Amanda Holden, who appeared emotional just seconds into the song as the audience erupted in applause.
Judges' Reactions and Golden Buzzer Moment
As the performance concluded, Amanda Holden exclaimed, "Oh my God," leaping from her seat. The crowd and all four judges—including guest judge Stacey Solomon, Alesha Dixon, and KSI—offered a standing ovation. Blown away by the act, Amanda, who was serving as Head Judge in place of Simon Cowell, decisively hit the Golden Buzzer, securing the choir's spot in the semi-finals.
The decision shocked host Ant McPartlin, who shouted, "Oh my what?!" as the choir burst into cheers and tears. Stacey Solomon told Amanda, "You've just made their whole lives," underscoring the emotional impact of the moment.
Amanda Holden's Heartfelt Praise
Speaking directly to the choir, Amanda Holden shared her feelings: "As soon as you, God, it's so silly. As soon as you started, I completely welled up. I felt so much power. I love the whole community. I love how you've all got together and work your a***s off. You work so hard every single day. You absolutely smashed it and I can't wait to see what you do in the semi-finals. Congratulations."
Other judges also praised the performance. Stacey Solomon remarked, "I don't think anyone will understand the power of a choir unless they've been in a choir. It's such an incredible space to release and just letting it go. I'm so grateful that I got to experience that in real life, so thank you and congrats." Alesha Dixon added, "Music is so powerful, it's like therapy, and you could really feel that, it sounded beautiful." YouTube star KSI commented, "Wow! Talk about multi-talented. Farming and then singing. Honestly, it felt like you belonged there. Congratulations, and we'll see you soon."
What's Next for Britain's Got Talent
Britain's Got Talent continues next Saturday at 6:45pm on ITV1, ITVX, and STV, with more acts vying for a chance to impress the judges and advance in the competition. The Hawkstone Farmers Choir's journey to the semi-finals promises to be a highlight of the season, showcasing the power of community and music in overcoming daily hardships.
