Fans tuning into the first live semi-final of Britain's Got Talent on Saturday night were left slamming "rude" Simon Cowell after a tense exchange with co-host Dec Donnelly. The moment occurred as Dec attempted to wrap up the judges' feedback for magician Fraser Penman, whose commentary had extended longer than expected.
Dec's Attempt to Move On
After Ant and Dec called for no drama following the chaotic events of the previous night's I'm A Celebrity South Africa final, Dec tried to cut off the judges. He shouted, "Thank you judges, thank you very much," hoping to progress the live show. However, Simon Cowell sharply responded, "I'm still talking!" leaving Dec visibly taken aback.
Fan Backlash
Viewers took to social media to express their anger at Simon's perceived rudeness. One fan said: "I'm still talking? F**k off Simon." Another commented: "'I'm still talking' Simon I think Ant and Dec have had enough attitude for this weekend." A third posted: "Wow @SimonCowell is a little rude I'm still talking!" Another viewer added: "'I'm still talking' God he's such a d**k. Pack it up Dec, you don't need the money." Some fans sympathized with Dec, noting the stress from the previous night's I'm A Celebrity final, where Ant and Dec had to intervene in a heated argument between contestants Jimmy Bullard, David Haye, and Adam Thomas.
Background of the Drama
On Friday night, Ant and Dec hosted the live final of I'm A Celebrity… South Africa, which saw tensions boil over. David Haye called out Adam Thomas over his earlier clash with Jimmy Bullard. Adam had branded Jimmy a "prick" after Jimmy jeopardized their Bushtucker trial. Insiders claimed Adam "completely lost it and went for Jimmy," though an ITV spokesperson denied this. The drama continued when Jimmy criticized the show's edit, and David Haye weighed in, causing Sinitta and Gemma Collins to walk off set live on air. Ant and Dec addressed the situation, noting some content was not fit for broadcast.
Britain's Got Talent 2026 live shows air Saturdays at 7PM on ITV1 and ITVX.
