Britain's Got Talent returned for its 18th series on ITV, but viewers were quick to express frustration over the first episode's lengthy build-up. The programme, which aired auditions from Blackpool, opened with a montage of upcoming highlights and a skit featuring head judge Simon Cowell as the 'King', leaving fans annoyed before the first act even took to the stage.
Social media users took to X to complain about the delay, with one describing the intro as 'ridiculous' and another urging the show to 'get on with it'. One viewer calculated that eight minutes — roughly 10 per cent of the episode — had passed before any performance was shown, while others mocked the spoiler-laden previews.
The judging panel this year includes Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, Bruno Tonioli, and guest judge KSI, the social media star. The series, which began in 2007, has produced notable winners such as tenor Paul Potts and dance troupe Diversity, with last year's title going to vocalist Sydnie Christmas.
A format change for the live semi-finals sees episodes air weekly rather than nightly, extending the competition's run. The eventual winner will receive a £250,000 prize and a slot at the Royal Variety Performance.
