Britain’s Got Talent is returning to screens with a new series, featuring a lineup of hopefuls competing for the £250,000 prize money and a spot on the Royal Variety Performance. Past winners have experienced varying levels of fame and success, with some transitioning into TV judging, podcasting, or acting. The previous series saw backlash from viewers over comedian Viggo Venn’s victory in 2023. As the search for Britain’s next big star commences, a look back at what past winners have been up to sheds light on the diverse paths these talented individuals have taken.
The first winner of Britain’s Got Talent was opera singer Paul Potts in 2007, who achieved global success with a platinum album and a film biopic of his life. Following his victory, Paul continues to perform around the world and release albums. Street dancer George Sampson, crowned champion in 2008, has since turned to acting and pantomime, with recent performances in touring productions. Diversity, the street dance troupe that won in 2009, have launched their diversity studio, with choreographer Ashley Banjo finding success as a judge on various TV shows.
Spelbound, the gymnastic troupe that captured audience attention in 2010, experienced a decline in public visibility after their Royal Variety Performance due to a coach’s controversy. Singer Jai McDowall, winner of series 5 in 2011, has continued to perform, transitioning into theatre productions. Ashleigh and Pudsey, the performing dog act that charmed audiences in 2012, faced a tragedy when Pudsey passed away but have continued to succeed in the industry with a new dog and agility awards. Attraction, the shadow theatre group from Hungary that won in 2013, have returned to the show with a new generation of dancers.
Collabro, the male singing group crowned champions in 2014, released three albums before disbanding in 2022 after a farewell tour. Jules and Matisse, the performing dog act that won in 2015, faced controversy over a dog switch during their final performance but continued performing under a new name. Magician Richard Jones, who won in 2016, has pursued a successful career in magic and military service. Pianist and music producer Tokio Myers, series 11 winner, earned three Classical Brit Awards and continued to pursue music and charitable endeavors.
Lost Voice Guy, the comedian who won in 2018, has starred in radio sitcoms and TV shows, released a book, and continues to perform live. Army veteran and singer Colin Thackery, winner of series 13, remains active in the music industry and has moved audiences with his emotional performances. Jon Courtenay, the singer and comedian who won in 2020, overcame skin cancer to continue his career in comedy and music. Axel Blake, the 2022 winner, has been touring and performing gigs across the UK, showcasing his comedy skills to audiences nationwide.
The most recent winner, Viggo Venn, sparked backlash from viewers in 2023 with his victory, leading to mixed reactions from the audience. Despite some criticism, Venn has continued to perform and is currently touring in Australia before returning to the UK. The diverse paths taken by past winners of Britain’s Got Talent highlight the challenges and successes faced by talented individuals as they navigate the entertainment industry and pursue their dreams.
