Simon Cowell has revealed that Girls Aloud star Cheryl was originally set to be a judge on the first season of Britain’s Got Talent in 2007.
However, she abruptly pulled out just days before filming began, leaving the show in chaos.
As Britain’s Got Talent prepares to launch its 18th season, Cowell, 65, reflected on the unexpected turn of events,
explaining that Cheryl’s last-minute decision forced the production team to scramble for a replacement.
Ultimately, Amanda Holden stepped in—and has remained on the panel ever since.
Cheryl’s Sudden Exit Left Production in Crisis
Speaking about the situation, Cowell revealed that he and Britain’s Got Talent producers had initially chosen Cheryl (then known as Cheryl Cole) to be a judge alongside himself and Piers Morgan. However, just a week before filming was due to start, she unexpectedly backed out.
“A week before filming, she calls me and goes, ‘I just can’t do it,’ and wouldn’t give me a reason. I think she was freaked out,” Cowell shared.
Her sudden withdrawal left the show with only two judges and little time to find a third. Amanda Holden was quickly approached and offered the role.
Cowell admitted that Holden was his first choice once Cheryl left, saying, “I just knew it had to be Amanda because I’d met her and I really liked her. She was very funny, and I just thought she’d fit the show perfectly.”
What was initially a last-minute decision turned into a long-term success, as Holden has remained a key part of the judging panel for nearly two decades.
Amanda Holden’s 18-Year Run on Britain’s Got Talent
Looking back, Cowell expressed his gratitude for Holden’s role on the show, praising her longevity and contribution to the series.
“She is our Britain’s Got Talent queen, and she deserves that crown,” he said. “Fast forward 18 years, and she’s still a huge success. We have become great friends. I do consider her one of my best friends.”
Since its debut in 2007, Britain’s Got Talent has become one of the most popular talent competitions on television. The judging panel has evolved over the years, with current judges including Cowell, Holden, Alesha Dixon, and Bruno Tonioli. This season, YouTuber and rapper KSI will also appear as a special guest judge.
A Dangerous Stunt Nearly Ended in Disaster
In addition to discussing Britain’s Got Talent’s early days, Cowell also opened up about a terrifying moment during the upcoming season.
During one particularly risky audition, he found himself in a life-threatening situation when a blindfolded daredevil attempted to smash watermelons with a mallet—just inches from his head.
Describing the nerve-wracking moment, Cowell recalled, “It’s that feeling when you kind of think somebody doesn’t want you on the show anymore. It was the closest, genuinely, where I’m thinking, ‘They actually want to kill me.’”
He explained that the performer became nervous and started shaking, making the stunt even more dangerous. Fortunately, a member of the show’s health and safety team intervened and stopped the act before any harm was done.
“Thank God, they saved my life,” Cowell admitted. “When you’re up there, you’re immersed in it, and then you go home and think, ‘That sht is dark. I nearly got killed twelve times.’”*
Judges React to the Frightening Incident
Cowell’s fellow judges were visibly shaken by the near-accident. Amanda Holden described watching the scene as “horrific” and “hard to watch.” She also revealed that the stage had become dangerously slippery due to the watermelon juice, making the stunt even riskier.
“Even with St. John’s Ambulance there, I don’t know what they would have done if something went wrong,” Holden admitted. “It was very precarious, and any kind of safety that there must have been was out the window.”
Alesha Dixon also weighed in, saying that she was “genuinely worried” for Cowell’s safety. Seeing him in such a dangerous position made her realize how much she cared about him, she added.
What’s Next for Britain’s Got Talent?
With the show’s return just around the corner, this season promises to be filled with jaw-dropping performances and unforgettable moments. Alongside the usual mix of singers, dancers, and variety acts, fans can expect even more high-risk stunts—including one from contestant Auzzy Blood, who performs daring feats like suspending himself from a nasal hook.
As always, hosts Ant and Dec will be on hand to guide viewers through the highs and lows of the competition.
Despite the last-minute drama in its early days, Britain’s Got Talent has gone on to become a staple of British television. And while Cheryl may have bowed out before it all began, Amanda Holden’s long-standing presence has helped shape the show’s success for nearly two decades.
As for Cowell, he may be pushing the limits with dangerous stunts—but with his sharp wit and unshakable confidence, he remains the heart of the show.g
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