Amanda Holden, the long-serving Britain's Got Talent judge, has openly criticized the rumored frontrunners for the Strictly Come Dancing hosting role, labeling them as 'boring' and urging producers to think more creatively. In a recent interview with Metro and other press outlets, the 55-year-old television personality shared her candid thoughts on the high-profile vacancy left by Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Holden's Bold Take on Strictly Hosting Candidates
When asked about the speculated list of contenders for the coveted Strictly Come Dancing presenting job, Holden did not hold back. 'Often when I see lots of names attached to it, I'm like, boring, boring...' she remarked during a phone call. 'All brilliant people, but you just go, come on! Think outside the box here.'
Despite declining the opportunity herself due to scheduling conflicts—citing her commitments to Britain's Got Talent, her radio show, and family life—Holden emphasized her strong preference for the BBC to select two female hosts. 'That's my big thing,' she stated. 'I think it's a really amazing job to break two people that we might not know or don't know that well and push them up into the spotlight.'
Advocating for Underrated Women in Entertainment
Holden highlighted the need to give deserving women in the industry a significant break. 'There are so many women in our industry like that—without getting too political—who've put all the work in, all the hours, who deserve a bloody break,' she asserted. She suggested potential candidates such as comedians Katherine Ryan and Daisy May Cooper, as well as television presenter Alex Jones, during the conversation.
To find a replacement for Claudia Winkleman's distinctive wit, Holden proposed an innovative approach: 'Go and search the Edinburgh Festival,' she exclaimed. 'Make it a thing. Make it a prize!' Her enthusiasm for revitalizing the show's hosting team was palpable throughout the discussion.
Rejecting Other High-Profile Opportunities
In addition to Strictly Come Dancing, Holden revealed that she had turned down an offer to participate in Celebrity Traitors. She explained that while the BBC casting team typically requests confidentiality regarding approaches, she felt compelled to share her reasoning. 'I'm just gonna say I can't do it because it would mean I'd miss three Saturday nights on Britain's Got Talent, and I can't miss three Saturday nights on Britain's Got Talent,' she said.
Holden expressed flattery at the offer but set clear terms, joking, 'I also don't fancy staying at a hotel in Inverness airport.' Her dedication to Britain's Got Talent, where she is now the longest-serving host, remains unwavering, as she prioritizes the show's success over newer ventures.
Britain's Got Talent Updates and Panel Dynamics
As Britain's Got Talent prepares for its 19th series, Holden discussed recent changes to the judging panel. Bruno Tonioli, 70, has been replaced by KSI, 32, in a strategic move to attract a younger audience. Holden praised this decision, noting that 'everyone's happy' about the switch, especially since Tonioli had scheduling conflicts with Dancing with the Stars.
Reflecting on her own role, Holden maintained a humble attitude: 'I've always publicly said, I'm very grateful to sit in my judging seat. If that ends, I respect the decision, because it's always good to keep reinventing.' She also shared a lighthearted bond with KSI, joking about being his 'nan' and appreciating his fitness-focused lifestyle, though she humorously dismissed his energy drinks as useful for weightlifting—a task she implied was unlikely for her.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
Holden teased what viewers can expect from her in the upcoming Britain's Got Talent live shows, promising her signature style with a playful tone. 'I have yet to decide what we're going to wear for the live [shows],' she said. 'But of course, there'll be side boob and leg, anything else that I can get out. Bring it on.'
Britain's Got Talent is set to return on February 21 at 7pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with Holden continuing to bring her vibrant personality to the judging panel amidst ongoing discussions about television hosting roles and industry opportunities.
