BGT Series 19 is officially gearing up for 2026, and despite auditions already being underway, the search for the country’s next superstar is far from over. Audition for BGT 2026 are still open, giving hopefuls a final chance to take the stage next year.
The new series follows the victory of magician Harry Moulding, who lifted the trophy in 2025 after wowing both the judges and viewers. His win capped off the longest-running series in the show’s history. Now, as BGT prepares to return, big changes and exciting updates are already generating buzz.

When Will Britain’s Got Talent 2026 Air?
ITV has not yet confirmed an official premiere date for Series 19. However, based on past seasons, the show typically airs in the first quarter of the year. Viewers can expect the new season to begin sometime between February and March 2026.
Auditions For BGT 2026: Full Schedule And Updates
Auditions kicked off at the start of October 2025, but not without a few surprises.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable For | Britain’s Got Talent 2026 (Series 19) |
| Application Status | Open |
| How to Apply | Online, Video Submission, WhatsApp, In-Person |
| Official Audition Link | Apply BGT 2026 |
| Who Can Apply? | All ages, individuals & groups |
| Judges (Series 19) | Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, KSI |
Table of Contents
Kickoff in Birmingham
- The first round was scheduled at the Hippodrome Theatre, Birmingham, on Thursday, 2nd October, but had to be cancelled when head judge Simon Cowell fell ill.
- Auditions resumed on Friday, 3rd October, with Stacey Solomon stepping in for Simon.
Blackpool Dates
Auditions then moved to the Winter Gardens, Blackpool on:
- Friday, 10th October
- Thursday, 16th October
- Friday, 17th October
Upcoming BGT Series 19 Audition Dates And Time
Where will the auditions for BGT 2026 be held in November?
- Sunday, 13th November – Imperial Hotel, Blackpool
- Saturday, 19th November – EICC, Edinburgh
Where will the auditions for BGT 2026 be held in December?
- Thursday, 8th December (3:30pm–6:30pm) – Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, Edinburgh
- Thursday, 8th December (12:00pm–6:00pm) – St Stephen’s Shopping Centre, Hull
- Thursday, 8th December (1:00pm–5:30pm) – Croydon Central Shopping Centre, Lincoln
- Saturday, 10th December (12:00pm–4:00pm) – Reading Town Hall, Reading
- Saturday, 10th & Sunday, 11th December – Manchester Central, Manchester
- Tuesday, 13th December (12:00pm–4:00pm) – The Mall, Luton
- Saturday, 17th & Sunday, 18th December – ExCeL London
Where Is BGT C Being Filmed?
For Series 19, the main audition venues are:
- Winter Gardens, Blackpool
- Hippodrome Theatre, Birmingham
Who Are the Judges for Britain’s Got Talent 2026?
The judging panel has undergone a significant shake-up.
Returning Judges
- Simon Cowell
- Amanda Holden
- Alesha Dixon
Goodbye Bruno Tonioli
Bruno Tonioli announced his departure on 1st September 2025 after three seasons. He said the show had given him “three incredible series,” but his commitments to Dancing with the Stars in the US meant he had to step down.
Hello KSI – The New Permanent Judge
Following his guest judge appearance in 2025, KSI has now officially joined the panel.
KSI shared his excitement, saying:
“I can’t wait to make this the most entertaining BGT season ever! I’m full of energy and ready to go.”
Stacey Solomon Joins as Guest Judge
Stacey Solomon filled in for Simon Cowell during the first day of Birmingham auditions.
She shared her excitement on Instagram:
“This is a dream come true for me… I cannot wait to get started.”
Where Can You Watch BGT?
Britain’s Got Talent 2026 will air on:
- ITV / ITVX (UK)
- STV / STV Player (Scotland)
What Time Does It Air?
Episodes are expected to air in the show’s usual primetime slot of 7 PM.
Can You Still Apply for BGT 2026?
Yes! Even though auditions are underway, applications for the 2026 series remain open.
You can apply via:
- In-person auditions
- Video submissions
- WhatsApp entries
Who Is Hosting Britain’s Got Talent 2026?
The iconic duo Ant & Dec will return to host the new season, keeping their long-running streak alive.
FAQs
Are auditions for BGT 2026 still open?
Yes! Even though physical auditions have begun, applications are still open. Contestants can apply online, via video, or through WhatsApp.
Can I attend auditions in person?
Yes. The production team is hosting multiple in-person audition dates across the UK from October to December 2025.
Who won Britain’s Got Talent 2025?
The 18th series was won by magician Harry Moulding, who impressed judges and viewers throughout the longest series in BGT history.
Is there an age limit to audition for BGT 2026?
No. Britain’s Got Talent remains one of the few UK talent shows with no age restriction. Children, teens, adults, and seniors are all eligible to apply.
Can international performers take part in BGT 2026?
Yes, international talent can participate, as long as they can travel to the UK for in-person auditions and any further rounds.
Will the Golden Buzzer return in 2026?
Yes! Each judge — and sometimes the hosts — traditionally gets one Golden Buzzer that sends an act straight to the live semi-finals. This feature is expected to continue.
Are animals allowed on BGT 2026?
Animal acts are accepted, but they must follow strict welfare and safety guidelines. Acts with exotic or high-risk animals may require special approval.
Will Britain’s Got Talent 2026 feature any new elements?
Yes, Series 19 is expected to highlight more digital audition clips and viral acts, giving online performers a bigger platform.