The first day of Britain’s Got Talent auditions were set to begin this week but have reportedly been called off

The opening day of Britain’s Got Talent auditions has been delayed, following reports that Simon Cowell has taken ill.

Auditions for the ITV show were scheduled to commence in Birmingham at the Hippodrome theatre today (Thursday 2 October). This comes after it was announced Bruno Tonioli has decided to step down from the show.

Nevertheless, it has now been reported that auditions have been called off.

Just hours before the auditions were set to kick off, the programme’s official X page published a post announcing the start of the event.

It stated: “We’re so back… Who’s joining us for the start of our #BGT Series 19 Auditions tomorrow! ? And for any late-comers, there’s still time to apply! Click the link and maybe we’ll be seeing YOU on that stage” it concluded with a link to apply for auditions.

Yet, the tweet was quickly met with replies from bewildered fans claiming they had received emails stating the audition had been called off, reports the Mirror.

BGT hopefuls will have to wait longer to show off their talents

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Its believed the auditions have been delayed (Image: ITV)

 

One stated: “Just had an email to say this is cancelled tomorrow is this correct?”

Another commented: “Has this been cancelled? Had an email now to say its been cancelled, true?”

A third enquired: “Err I have just had an email to say the shows been postponed so you will rearrange our tickets for another day??”

Amidst the bewilderment amongst fans and BGT hopefuls, a source has suggested the auditions were delayed due to head judge Simon, 65, becoming unwell.

A source told The Sun: “Simon felt unwell in the last 24 hours. Judges often miss the odd audition because they don’t feel great – Simon, for example, has long suffered with migraines.

Simon Cowell at a desk in front of a crowd

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Simon Cowell has been part of the ITV show since it began in 2007(Image: Trae Patton/NBC via Getty Images)

“But it was decided, as this was the first audition of the series, it was best to postpone – so we could launch with everyone on the panel.

“He’s on the mend now – and hoping to be fighting fit for tomorrow.”

A BGT spokesperson said: “Due to unforeseen circumstances today’s filming of Britain’s Got Talent has been postponed.”

Simon was set to begin the opening round of auditions alongside his fellow panellists Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and KSI, who has taken over from previous judge Bruno Tonioli after he confirmed earlier this year that he wouldn’t be returning to BGT due to scheduling conflicts.

The YouTuber KSI filled in for Bruno during some auditions last year, but has now taken on the role permanently following the departure of the former Strictly Come Dancing judge.

KSI said: “I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season. I had such a good time last year and I can’t wait to see some more top talent.

KSI looking shocked with his mouth open

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KSI is taking over Bruno’s judging role i the next series(Image: ITV)

“I’m full of energy, ready to go and can’t wait to make this the most entertaining BGT season ever! Let’s do this.”