Bruno Tonioli is a surprise frontrunner to replace David Walliams on 'Britain's Got Talent'.
Bruno Tonioli is a surprise frontrunner to replace David Walliams on BGT
The former 'Strictly Come Dancing' judge, 67, is said to be in a two-horse race with Alan Carr, 46, to take over from the 'Little Britain' comedian, after the 51-year-old star found himself at the centre of a controversy in 2022 following recordings that were leaked, in which he could be heard making crude sexual remarks about two contestants during auditions in January 2020.
David publicly apologised for his remarks but after 10 years on the programme decided to walk away, leaving a seat on the judging panel - also made up of Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon - free for either Bruno Alan.
A TV insider told The Sun newspaper: "Signing up Bruno would be seen as a huge coup for Simon as he was always seen as a favourite on 'Strictly' with his ostentatious style.
"Bringing some of that hilarious magic across to 'BGT' would help fill the big shoes left behind by comic David.
"Although his background is almost entirely in dance, that has seen him work with a range of artists involved in West End shows as well as pop star’s videos, so he would bring a wealth of experience."
Bruno departed 'Strictly' permanently in 2021 and was replaced on the judging panel by pro dancer Anton Du Beke.
The insider added: "Signing Bruno would also be seen as a snub to 'Strictly' who are his long time rivals from the days when Simon’s other show, 'The X Factor', was locked in a ratings battle with the Beeb rival.
"This would have seen him take not one but two judges from them, as he already has former 'Strictly' star Alesha Dixon on the panel."
Alan was said to be close to joining the 'BGT' judging panel, but sources have told the publication that it is "far from being a done deal".
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