Bradley Walsh to replace Simon Cowell on ITV's BGT

The TV presenter, known for hosting The Chase and Gladiators, will fill in for Cowell during next month’s auditions.

He will join regular judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI on the panel for the upcoming BGT auditions.

Cowell is stepping down temporarily due to a back operation, following injuries sustained in a 2020 electric bike accident that led to long-term nerve damage and a metal rod being fitted in his spine.

Bradley Walsh to fill in for Simon Cowell on Britain's Got Talent

A source, speaking to The Sun, said: "Bradley will be a brilliant stand in for Simon and will offer an old school performer flavour, which will complement the rest of the cast nicely.

"He's full of wise cracks and great one liners so should have the audience in stitches."

Comedians Lee Mack and Greg Davies were also reportedly considered for the guest judging role.

Huge TV star lined up to stand in for Simon Cowell in BGT auditions next month https://t.co/FBOnOwlzmc

— The Sun TV (@TheSunTV) September 26, 2026

This is not the first time Cowell has missed part of the show due to injury; in 2020, Ashley Banjo stepped in as a guest judge during his absence.

ITV has been contacted for comment.

When is the next series of Britain's Got Talent?

Britain’s Got Talent will return for its 20th series next year, though an exact start date has not yet been confirmed.

This year’s series began in February, and a similar launch date is expected for 2027.

Applications for BGT 2027 are now open and will close on Friday, October 16.

ITV said: "Whether you can sing, dance, crack a joke or balance plates on your head while jumping on a trampoline, you could be our next winner!

"So, don't hesitate, apply today."

Who won Britain's Got Talent in 2026?

The Hawkstone Farmers' Choir, initially formed by Jeremy Clarkson to support farming and mental health awareness, won BGT 2026.

The choir beat Celestial (drone art) and Anastasiia & Salsa (dog act) in the final, held on May 30.

It was the first time a choir has won BGT.

Have you applied for series 20 of Britain's Got Talent? Let us know in the poll above or in the comments below.