Britain's Got Talent returned to ITV for its 19th series, with contestants vying for a £250,000 prize and a spot at the Royal Variety Performance. The judging panel this year features Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI, who replaced Bruno Tonioli. During Saturday's instalment, Stacey Solomon filled in for Simon, who was unwell during filming in October, before he rejoined later in the show.
The judges were introduced to Aldo Nicolini, a 61-year-old Italian magician, who emerged from beneath a curtain and placed a scarf around his neck. His head appeared to detach from his body in a startling illusion, prompting screams from young audience members and stunned reactions from the judges. He continued to 'lose his head' using props including a box and a handkerchief, making his head seem to drift away.
Amanda Holden said: "I've never seen anything like that before. It was charming, it's a yes from me!" KSI disagreed, stating: "I think I'm going to be a bit of a downer here, but I didn't like it. I mean, he just kept doing the same thing over and over. It's a no, man." Alesha Dixon found the performance 'entertaining', while Simon added: "I thought it was actually silly, funny and good," before confirming Aldo's place in the next round.
Many viewers shared KSI's view, taking to X to complain. One wrote: "What the f***, that is disgusting," while another said: "What in the Beetlejuice is this? Halloween has come early." A third remarked: "That's just freaky," and another echoed: "No sorry but that was disgusting." One viewer added: "Well, that'll give kids nightmares tonight."
However, some appreciated the act. One person commented: "I love stupid s*** like this man," while another said: "Yeah that was brilliant. Something different!" A third added: "The head guy! Completely ridiculous, but entertaining nonetheless."
