As Britain’s Got Talent returns for its 18th series, Simon Cowell has finally opened up about why Amanda Holden has remained a cornerstone of the show since its inception in 2007. 

Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Amanda has held her place as the longest-serving judge alongside Simon himself.

Speaking to the press ahead of the new season, the BGT creator praised Amanda’s dedication 

and enthusiasm, crediting her unwavering passion for the acts as the key reason she has stayed on the panel for nearly two decades.

Amanda Holden’s Passion for the Acts Sets Her Apart

Simon described Amanda as the “queen” of Britain’s Got Talent, emphasizing that her genuine love for the performers is what makes her irreplaceable.

“Amanda’s been there from the very beginning,” Simon explained. “What do you think is the secret to her BGT success? Simple—she loves the acts. That’s her. She honestly loves it.”

He added that even after long filming days, Amanda’s energy remains high. “There are days when I’m absolutely knackered, and there’s still an hour to go. And I’ll say, ‘Wow, it’s been a long day.’ And she’ll just smile and say, ‘Yeah, but it’s brilliant, isn’t it?’ She is our Britain’s Got Talent queen, and she deserves that crown.”

Amanda Almost Didn’t Get the Job

While Amanda has become synonymous with BGT, Simon admitted that she wasn’t the original choice for the role. He revealed that Cheryl Cole (as she was known at the time) had initially been offered the judging spot but pulled out at the last minute.

Recalling the casting decision, Simon shared: “She was an interesting booking because we’d offered the role to Cheryl Cole. A week before filming, she calls me and says, ‘I just can’t do it’ but wouldn’t give a reason. I think she was freaked out. We literally had two judges and just a week to find someone.”

With time running out, Simon turned to Amanda. “I just knew it had to be Amanda because I’d met her, and I really liked her. She was very funny, and I thought she’d fit the show perfectly.”

That last-minute decision turned out to be one of the best choices Simon made. “Fast forward 18 years, and she’s still a huge success, and we’ve become great friends.”

Strong Chemistry Among the Judges

One of the secrets to the enduring success of Britain’s Got Talent is the chemistry between the judges. Over the years, various celebrities have joined the panel, but Amanda and Simon’s friendship remains the heart of the show.

Simon also highlighted his strong bond with fellow judges Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli, as well as the show’s beloved hosts, Ant and Dec.

“Alesha and Bruno are genuinely friends in real life too,” Simon said. “We do like each other at work, but also in our private lives. There’s this amazing shorthand with us, and I’d say that’s definitely the case with me and Ant and Dec as well.”

He even joked about their shared sense of humor: “I laugh at weird things, I have a very strange sense of humor. And I look at Ant and Dec, and they’re literally bent over laughing too. I think, ‘It really is that funny.’ I’ve got a unique rapport with them.”

Amanda Holden’s Excitement for Season 18

For Amanda, reaching the 18th season of Britain’s Got Talent is a milestone she never imagined. Despite being a fixture on the show for nearly two decades, she remains as excited as ever.

“Well, I’m just thrilled to still be here, first of all!” she said.

Amanda credited the show’s longevity to the incredible talent that continues to audition year after year. “The show’s success is a testament to the amazing talent across the country. If it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t have anything. Now it’s a global show, so we invite everyone from everywhere to come on.”

She also reflected on how BGT has impacted a new generation of performers. “The amount of people who came on this year and said they remember watching it when they were five or very young—it made me feel old! But it’s amazing to have reached this milestone, and I still have the honor of being on the panel.”

What’s Next for Britain’s Got Talent?

As BGT returns, fans can expect more jaw-dropping performances, emotional moments, and hilarious judge banter. With Amanda Holden firmly in her seat, the show’s heart and soul remain intact.

Simon’s revelation about Amanda’s role only confirms what many fans already believe—she is, without a doubt, the reigning queen of Britain’s Got Talent, and it doesn’t look like she’s stepping down from her throne anytime soon.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.