Bradley Walsh is poised to join the Britain’s Got Talent judging panel as a temporary replacement for Simon Cowell.
The television presenter, recognised for his work fronting The Chase and Gladiators, will assume Cowell’s position during next month’s audition phase.
Walsh will sit alongside established panellists Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI for the forthcoming recordings.
Cowell is taking a temporary leave of absence following a surgical procedure on his back.
The entertainment mogul sustained injuries in an electric bike incident in 2020, which resulted in lasting nerve damage and necessitated the insertion of a metal rod into his spine.
According to a source who spoke to The Sun, Walsh is expected to prove an effective substitute.
The individual noted that Walsh would bring a traditional entertainer quality to the role that would blend well with the existing lineup.
The source added that Walsh possesses a talent for sharp, humorous remarks that tend to amuse studio audiences.
Comedians Lee Mack and Greg Davies were also mentioned as potential candidates for the guest judging position.
This marks not the first occasion on which Cowell has been absent from the programme due to health matters.
In 2020, dancer and choreographer Ashley Banjo filled the guest judge role during his previous recovery period.
Representatives for ITV have been asked to provide a statement.
Britain’s Got Talent is scheduled to return for its twentieth season during the coming year, although a precise premiere date remains unconfirmed.
The current series launched in February, and a comparable springtime debut is anticipated for 2027.
Prospective contestants wishing to apply for series twenty may do so until Friday, October 16.
ITV has encouraged aspiring performers to submit applications, stating that individuals with abilities ranging from musical performance to comedy or acrobatic feats could potentially become the next winner.
The Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir, originally established by Jeremy Clarkson to champion agricultural communities and mental wellbeing, claimed victory in the 2026 competition.
The ensemble outperformed Celestial, an act featuring illuminated drone displays, and Anastasiia & Salsa, a performance involving canine participants, during the grand final on May 30.
The triumph represented the inaugural time a vocal group had secured the Britain’s Got Talent title.