Simon Cowell has praised Stacey Solomon for stepping in as a judge on Britain's Got Talent when he was unable to attend auditions in Birmingham due to illness. The former X Factor contestant joined Amanda Holden, KSI and Alesha Dixon on the panel, having previously auditioned for Cowell on the ITV show in 2009.
Speaking at ITV Showcase 2026, Cowell said: 'I think Stacey Solomon was incredible.' Holden joked: 'We loved her. I think the thing is Simon really liked me sitting in his seat.' Cowell added: 'I've noticed whenever I'm off you can't wait to get on that chair.'
Bosses brought in Solomon to avoid cancelling the sessions, and she was praised for her natural, empathetic approach with contestants. She pressed her golden buzzer for Braunstone Community Primary School from Leicestershire, who performed 'All Things Bright And Beautiful' and a freestyle dance to a rave mash-up. The act advanced to the live semi-finals, which air tonight (Saturday, May 2).
Former head teacher Halil Tamugus, who appeared in the audition as Mr T, told the Mirror: 'Stacey's a good friend of ours now... She came into the school as well, she made a surprise visit last week. It was great.' He added: 'When Stacey pressed the Golden Buzzer, it took me probably 30 seconds longer than everybody else to actually process what was going on.'
Tonight's semi-final also features a performance from series 17 winner Sydnie Christmas with the Great Ormond Street Hospital Choir, supported by Cowell. Britain's Got Talent continues at 7pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
