BRITAIN’S Got Talent judge Bruno Tonioli’s place on the panel has been saved by show boss Simon Cowell.
Filming the ITV series was set to clash with the shooting schedule for US show Dancing With The Stars — which Bruno has been on since 2005.
Bruno Tonioli’s place on the Britain’s Got Talent panel has been saved by show boss Simon Cowell[/caption]
Fans raved when Bruno joined the show last year[/caption]
But Simon will fork out thousands to have the popular 68-year-old flown back and forth.
A source said: “When Bruno joined BGT last year he breathed new life into the show.
“Simon loved how unpredictable he was and thought he made great TV. From the ratings it’s clear the views agreed too.
“When plans were drawn up to revamp BGT for 2025 it was quickly flagged to Simon and producers Bruno is already committed to Dancing With the Stars.
“Simon managed to find a way to make it work thaat means while a stand-in judge may need to be used once or twice, Bruno will remain on the show.
“Flying back and forth isn’t ideal for Bruno but he loves both shows and is fully committed to them.”
Former Strictly judge Bruno will start filming in the US on September 17 and BGT the following month.
Comedian Alan Carr was initially tipped to replace Bruno if he had to leave, but is now thought to be top of the list to stand in.
Earlier this week ITV unveiled a massive format change for the show, which also features Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden.
It will have a four-month run from February, with live semi-finals on Saturday nights replacing the traditional nightly episodes across one week.
A source said: ‘Simon loved how unpredictable he (Bruno) was and thought he made great TV’[/caption]
