BRITAIN’S Got Talent viewers questioned whether Simon Cowell had a ‘total personality transplant’ after observing his noticeably less scathing feedback.
Simon, 64, became known around the world for his harsh criticisms on competition shows including The X Factor, American Idol and earlier, Pop Idol.
He has also judged on his creation, Britain’s Got Talent since the show began in 2007 although fans have noted his less severe comments in recent years.
In particular, BGT viewers flocked to X, formerly Twitter, after singer Gambino Akuboy took to the stage in Friday’s semi-final.
Gambino, 38, kicked off the live show with an upbeat song centred around celebrating the weekend after a busy working week.
His efforts impressed Simon, who told Gambino: “Part of doing well on this show is being likeable and you are so likeable.
“That song is so catchy and you know what, anything can happen on this show.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if the audience back you tonight to make it into the top three.
“Seriously, I just love everything about you and that performance.”
Fans watching at home weren’t as enthusiastic, with one writing: “I’d hire Gambino as a crowd warm up but that’s all. I never saw his audition and cannot believe he’s in the semi finals.”
Another queried: “Has Simon Cowell had a total personality transplant?”
A third added: “Simon is very wrong I shall not be backing him absolutely not.”
A fourth added: “I don’t understand why Simon keeps lying to people #BGT.”
Others had a more positive opinion of the performance, with one fan penning: “Gambino and Alex the comedian were my faves of the night today!!”
Someone else wrote: “I hope Denise and Stefan or Gambino Akaboy be picked as our wildcard on Sundays final!”
Britain's Got Talent winners
Britain's Got Talent has a gigantic hall of fame when it comes to its winners - from magicians, comedians to dance troops - the show has had it all. Here's a look back at each winner from each series...
2023 – Viggo Venn
2022 – Axel Blake
2021 – Cancelled by ITV due to the Coronavirus pandemic
2020 – Jon Courtenay
2019 – Colin Thackery
2018 – Lost Voice Guy
2017 – Tokio Myers
2016 – Richard Jones
2015 – Jules O’Dwyer & Matisse
2014 – Collabro
2013 – Attraction
2012 – Ashleigh and Pudsey
2011 – Jai McDowell
2010 – Spelbound
2009 – Diversity
2008 – George Sampson
2007 – Paul Potts
Friday’s semi-final also featured The Dark Hero, The Messoudi Brothers, Cyberagent Legit, Amasing, Trixy, Alex Mitchell and Denise & Stefan.
Comedian Alex Mitchell won the public vote, while the judges voted to send magician Trixy through to the final on Sunday.
Britain’s Got Talent airs on ITV1 and is available to watch on ITVX.
