In a typical twist for prime British television, the latest season of “Britain’s Got Talent” concluded amidst controversy, with Simon Cowell facing accusations of dishonesty. The uproar began after Sydnie Christmas clinched the title, becoming the first solo female (sans canine companion) to win in 17 years. The contention centers around her professional background in performing, which some viewers felt should disqualify her from the competition.
From the onset of the season, when Christmas received the golden buzzer, debates surged regarding the fairness of having professional performers compete in the show. This criticism also extended to Innocent Makusu, another finalist with a background in opera singing.
During the finale, Cowell attempted to address the concerns by stating, “None of them are professional,” a comment that quickly sparked backlash on social media platforms. Viewers expressed their disbelief, with comments such as, “Simon is lying about none of the acts being professional!” and critiques like, “A professional singer wins a final that Simon claimed ‘had no professionals in it’.”
Accusations of the show being ‘fixed’ were rampant online, with one user stating, “What a fix! And Simon’s statement about professional performers felt a little forced & deliberate, when everyone blatantly knows Sydnie Christmas is an established West End performer having performed in Starlight Express, Grease, Lazarus! FIX!”
Despite the controversy, it is important to note that Christmas, while indeed having professional credits, has not yet achieved her dream of being a West End star. The 28-year-old’s experience primarily includes performances on cruise ships and a stint in a show in Germany, and she currently works in a gym.
Criticism aside, the public voted Christmas the winner of “Britain’s Got Reserves Talent,” indicating a broad viewer endorsement of her talent, regardless of her professional past. ITV has been contacted for a statement but has yet to respond.
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