Filming of Britain’s Got Talent is delayed ‘due to COVID-19 rule changes’ as Simon Cowell prepares to return to panel after injury
Filming for Britain’s Got Talent’s new series was reportedly delayed for weeks due to Covid-19 rule changes.
According to The Sun, the auditions were filmed next month with Simon Cowell returning after breaking his back, but they will not go ahead now.
A source said acts were expected to play at the London Coliseum between January 17 and 20 but now have to wait at least another two weeks.
Delay: Filming for Britain’s Got Talent new series has reportedly been delayed for weeks due to Covid-19 rule changes
They said: ‘Covid is causing damage by BGT filming. The reps want to keep spectators calm and put a smile on people’s faces but the safety of the team, the team and the competitors is the priority.
It is at the heart of all decisions. Live audiences and their reaction are a vital part of the show’s success as well, so producers want to keep that element and, if it all means delay, that’s how it will be. ‘
MailOnline has contacted representatives for Britain’s Got Talent for comment.
It comes after London and the South East were subject to strict Stage 4 regulations to combat the spread of the virus.
Change of plan: According to The Sun, the auditions filmed next month by Simon Cowell were expected to return after breaking his back, but will not go ahead now
Amanda Holden has previously confirmed that Simon will return to the judging panel with her and her fellow judges David Walliams and Alesha Dixon.
Diversity star Ashley Banjo was replaced on BGT live shows after he was injured while Amanda was promoted to chief judge.
Meanwhile, various guest stars filled him on Got Talent America, including Kelly Clarkson, 38.
Previously appearing on Loose Women, Amanda said: ‘Yes, Mr Cowell is returning. I spoke to him on the phone a few weeks ago and he feels on top of the world and he seems to look elegant too.
So it will be back for the new season we are filming in January. I can’t wait for it. ‘
Change: A source said that acts were expected to perform at the London Coliseum between January 17 and 20 but now have to wait at least another two weeks.
Simon is reportedly considering a lawsuit against the manufacturers of his electric bicycle after breaking his back.
The TV mogul, 61, and his team are said to be measuring legal options and have been pressuring their manufacturer, Swindon Powertrain.
One lawyer said a successful lawsuit could see Simon receive up to £ 10million for medical bills and loss of employment, The Sun said.
It comes as a spy from the manufacturers described the £ 20,000 electric bike as an ‘accident waiting to happen’ due to Simon’s lack of training.
They said: ‘Covid is causing damage by BGT filming. The delegates want to keep spectators calm and put a smile on people’s faces but the safety of the team, the team and the competitors is the priority ‘
He told the publication: ‘It should never have been sold to Simon without learning how to use it.’
The former employee said the Swind EB-01 bike, which reaches up to 60mph and is banned on public roads in the UK, should not be used without special training.
The source continued: ‘I said to my boss, “Are you showing Simon how to use this?” He said he was just letting it go and I said, ‘Are you serious?’ ”
They said: ‘Live audiences and their reaction are a vital part of the show’ s success too, so producers want to keep that element and, if it all means delay, so be it. will it be. ‘