Britain’s Got Talent presenters Ant and Dec issued an important announcement to viewers at home just before tonight’s episode began.
The brand new series of the talent competition kicked off tonight, with the show returning in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, as many self-isolate at home per government guidelines in order to prevent the spread of the illness.
Right at the beginning of tonight’s show, a video message from both Ant and Dec – who are both social distancing in their own homes – was shown, as they informed viewers that the show’s auditions were broadcast before the country was put into lockdown.
‘Hey everybody, hope you’re safe and all well,’ Dec began.
Ant continued: ‘Now before we get going with our first audition of 2020, we just wanted to assure you that everything you’re about to see was filmed back in January and February.’
‘Yes, so from everyone at BGT and our sponsor M&S Food, we hope tonight’s show puts a smile on your face,’ his pal added.
‘So enjoy and let’s bring on the talent!’
ITV had previously issued a statement to let fans know a bit more about the situation since the self-isolation rules came into place.
‘Everything on tonight’s sow and from BGT’s sponsor, M&S Food, was filmed and created earlier in the year – before the ongoing health crisis began and we can only hope the show will bring a little bit of light relief for viewers at this distressing time,’ the statement read.
‘As we’re sure you are aware, the live shows have been postponed, and we hope will now take place later in the year.’
In the meantime, tonight’s episode definitely lifted the spirits of viewers at homes with some pretty amazing auditions – but it also left fans emotional at some acts – including Sign With Us, who got the first golden buzzer of the series.
Britain’s Got Talent continues next Saturday at 8pm on ITV.
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