Gordon Ramsay’s ‘ex-mistress’ lashes out at ‘misleading’ Netflix documentary


Gordon Ramsay’s ‘ex-mistress’ lashes out at ‘misleading’ Netflix documentary
Gordon Ramsay’s newest series has recently landed on Netflix (Picture: Netflix UK)

The alleged former ‘mistress’ of Gordon Ramsay has hit out at his Netflix documentary, branding it ‘fake and misleading.’

Being Gordon Ramsay follows the celebrity chef, 59, as he embarks upon his most ambitious project yet.

In the six-part docuseries, he attempts to balance family and professional life with the opening of an enormous new restaurant concept at 22 Bishopsgate – one of London’s tallest and most high-profile buildings.

At the same time, it demonstrates a softer-side to the fiery-tempered Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef USA host.

Between navigating the setup of 22 Bishopsgate, the series sheds a light on Ramsay as husband to wife Tana, and father of their six children – Megan, 27, Holly and Jack, 26, Tilly, 24, Oscar, six, and Jesse, two.

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One person who has taken umbrage with the series is Sarah Symonds, who claimed to have had a seven-year affair with the chef from 2001 to 2008.

Undated handout photo issued by Netflix of Gordon Ramsay in the docuseries Being Gordon Ramsay. The new six-part series follows the Michelin-starred chef over nine months in the lead-up to "his biggest restaurant venture to date" - the opening of three restaurants, a bar and a cooking academy at London's 22 Bishopsgate. Issue date: Wednesday February 18, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Netflix/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.
Being Gordon Ramsay follows the chef over the course of nine months (Picture: PA Wire)
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Shutterstock (1227047l) Sarah Symonds Sarah Symonds, London, Britain - 11 Aug 2010 Ex mistress of Jeffrey Archer
Sarah Symonds claimed to have being having an affair with Ramsay for seven years (Picture: Shutterstock)

Speaking to Daily Mail, 56-year-old Symonds described the series as ‘totally fake – just like him.’

She continued: ‘It was a glossed over, rehabilitated, glow-up version of a bully, cheat, liar and serial philanderer.’

Rejecting the show’s depiction of Ramsay as a devoted husband and family man, she added: ‘Gordon always acted like a single man, a man about town.

‘He was always available and always at the same social venues late at night as me.

‘He had the swagger and confidence of a man with no responsibilities, and the persona of a man who certainly wasn’t rushing home.’

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Ramsay’s marriage was rocked in 2008, when Symonds came forward with allegations of a seven-year strong affair.

She said that she had been 31 and working in sales for an events and limo company in London when she first met Ramsay at London’s Chinawhite Nightclub.

She claimed that he had ‘no regard’ toward Tana, 51, implying that his marriage and family life were useful for his image.

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 16: Tana Ramsay (L) and Gordon Ramsay attend Alexander Dundas's 18th birthday party hosted by Lord and Lady Dundas on December 16, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Ramsay married wife Tana in 1996 (Picture: Getty Images)

‘He said that it just looked good if he was married, but that he was his own man,’ Symonds said.

After her allegations were first published in News of the World, Ramsay vehemently denied all claims – even telling the audience at the BBC Good Food Show in Birmingham: ‘If I was going to cheat it wouldn’t be with a complete slapper.’

That same year, Gordon and Tana went on to renew their vows in a show of public solidarity – while Symonds published her self-help book, Having An Affair?: A Handbook for the Other Woman.

Ramsay has continued to deny an affair with Symonds, and insists that he only ever met her four times.

File photos * RAMSAY RENEWS NUPTIALS TV chef GORDON RAMSAY is to renew his wedding vows - just months after allegations he cheated on his wife. The F Word star's 12-year marriage to wife Tana was rocked in November (08) by tabloid reports that he had a long-standing affair with "serial mistress" Sarah Symonds. Yet Ramsay firmly denied the rumours, claiming: "It never happened. It was completely made up. She set it up to make some money." Now the couple have decided to cement their vows in London this June (09) - and have even asked close pals David and Victoria Beckham to be witnesses at the ceremony. A source told British tabloid The People, "Gordon wants to show just how infatuated he still is with Tana. They have both had to endure some stormy days after he was accused of being unfaithful. "Gordon has maintained he has been the victim of untrue allegations. He is so delighted that Tana has stood by him. By renewing vows Gordon and Tana will show the world their relationship is as strong as ever." (SW/WNSPE/ZN) Tana Ramsay and Gordon Ramsay GQ Men of the Year Awards held at the Royal Opera House - Arrivals London, England - 02.09.08 Credit: (Mandatory): Daniel Deme / WENN
Gordon and Tana renewed their vows in the months after Symonds went public with her claims (Picture WENN)

In the wake of the allegations, Gordon and Tana went on to welcome sons Oscar and Jesse.

The pair also suffered a miscarriage in 2016, losing baby boy Rocky only five months into Tana’s pregnancy.

Speaking at the time, Gordon told HELLO!: ‘We were devastated, but thankfully we’re through the worst now. It could happen at any time to anyone. It has brought us all so much closer.’

Being Gordon Ramsay (Picture: Netflix)
In the documentary, Ramsay describes wife Tana as the ‘foundation’ of his success (Picture: Netflix UK)

Earlier this month, the Kitchen Nightmares host reflected on his first meeting with Tana, describing how he ‘stole’ her from the friend she’d been dating at the time.

Gordon told OK! magazine: ‘Tana was driving the car and I was sat in the back seat looking at my mate going, “Oh my god, your girlfriend is f****** gorgeous.”

‘She looked like a young Julia Roberts and she brought this level of excitement like no other. I’m not sure what Tana said when she met me, I got the feeling she wasn’t a big fan.’

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 16: Adam Peaty, Holly Ramsay, Tana Ramsay, Oscar James Ramsay, Tilly Ramsay and Henry Farrow attend the launch of
Ramsay’s growing brood extended to include son-in-law Adam Peaty last year (Picture: Getty Images)

Earlier this month, Ramsay was forced to answer against allegations that he’d ‘behaved like a bully’ toward son-in-law Adam Peaty’s parents.

In the wake of daughter Holly’s marriage to Olympic swimmer Peaty, reports emerged of a feud between the two families, with Peaty reportedly describing him as a ‘big bully.’

In response, Ramsay told The Sun: ‘I’m certainly not a bully,’ describing their claims as ‘appalling.’

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Stuart Clarke/Shutterstock (882051h) Sarah Symonds Sarah Symonds, a 'Professional Mistress' and author of the book 'Having an Affair', Britain - Mar 2009
Symonds described the toll that her alleged affair took on her mental health (Picture: Shutterstock)

While the Ramsays’ marriage may seem stronger than ever, Symonds has indicated that she is considering taking legal action against the Next Level Chef star.

She claims that the stress of their alleged affair and his repeated denials caused her to develop post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction issues.

‘If I read once more that this documentary is ‘unflinchingly honest’, I think I’ll scream,’ she said.

‘I am trying to heal, and then this appears everywhere. It makes me so angry.’

Metro.co.uk has contacted Gordon Ramsay’s representatives for comment on this story.

Being Gordon Ramsay is streaming now on Netflix UK.

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7 best BBC thrillers you can binge for free now including ‘masterpiece’


7 best BBC thrillers you can binge for free now including ‘masterpiece’
Happy Valley might have ended in 2023 – but fans still hail it as a ‘masterpiece’ (Picture: Ben Blackall/BBC/PA)

Yet another weekend has arrived with the weekly dilemma – what TV show should I binge while I’m lounging in bed?

(If, like me, you’re having a lazy Sunday indulging in a healthy dose of dolce far niente, that is).

There are plenty of new shows to check out on streaming platforms, such as The Night Agent season 3 on Netflix, which dropped this week to critical acclaim, and a gripping new Amazon Prime romance thriller.

However, there are also plenty of entertaining options ready for you to peruse on BBC iPlayer, particularly when you venture over to the TV thriller category.

So, if you’re after some recommendations of what to binge this weekend and you fancy a show that’s action-packed and full of suspense, here are seven of the best options on the Beeb.

The Tourist

No stranger to the thriller genre, The Tourist stars Jamie Dornan as an Irishman who mysteriously wakes up in an Australian hospital with amnesia.

The Tourist S2,01-01-2024,1,Elliot (JAMIE DORNAN),*NOT FOR PUBLICATION UNTIL 00:01HRS, TUESDAY 12TH DECEMBER, 2023*,Two Brothers,Steffan Hill
Jamie Dornan has questions that need answering in the first season of The Tourist (Picture: BBC/Two Brothers/Steffan Hill)

‘The man’ embarks on a search for answers to uncover clues about his identity, and fans were gripped from the very start when the show premiered in 2024.

‘I really enjoyed it, found it gripping and could not wait for the next episode. The comedy bits were actually great, some bits went too dark. I really liked the leads and still find myself when I think back on it,’ RobotIcHead wrote on Reddit.

Another user called aduong recommended bingeing the whole show over a weekend, adding that Jamie ‘carries the show through and through’.

The Fall

This year will mark a decade since the enthralling crime drama The Fall came to an end, starring Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, and Jamie Dornan as serial killer Paul Spector.

DSI Stella Gibson (Gillian Anderson) - Programme Name: The Fall - TX: n/a - Episode: n/a (No. n/a) - Embargoed for publication until: n/a - P (C) Artists Studio - Photographer: Steffan Hill
The Fall became one of Gillian Anderson’s most memorable roles (Picture: BBC/Artists Studio/Steffan Hill)

The programme received a spate of accolades during its three-season run, including a best lead actor win for Jamie at the Irish Film and Television Awards in 2014.

Discussing the thriller, Sex Education star Gillian praised how ‘unpredictable’ creator Allan Cubitt’s writing is in the script.

‘No matter how many conversations we might have prior to the series about what might or might not happen, what ends up on the page is so much more interesting, unlikely, unsettling and out of left field than pretty much anything I could have come up with,’ she said.

The Night Manager

The Night Manager finally returned for a second season at the start of this year after a decade-long hiatus – and what a comeback it was.

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Tom Hiddleston made a suave return as Jonathan Pine, a former hotel night manager-turned-spy, who discovers that his fight against the big baddie Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie) is far from over.

The gripping espionage drama will be returning for a third and final season after the devastating events of the season two finale. (Spoilers on the link below – you have been warned).

Discussing drawing The Night Manager to a close with season three, writer David Farr told Metro: ‘I feel like really good television has a shape and a structure and knows when it’s best to end. It feels like this has kind of got that epic trilogy feel to it. At the moment, I’m pretty clear about that myself.

Let’s delve into The Night Manager season 2 finale

‘It isn’t an ongoing detective thing, it just isn’t that kind of piece. It is a story of, fundamentally, a relationship between two men, this very strange relationship. A battle of, you could say, good versus evil, but, of course, it’s more complex than that.

‘But there is some element of that, isn’t there, at a very simple level? It needs to obey that, and it needs to resolve in a way that hopefully satisfies at least some people.’

Doctor Foster

The psychological thriller Doctor Foster originally premiered in 2015, introducing viewers to Suranne Jones’ lead character Gemma Foster.

Television Programme Doctor Foster Starring: Suranne Jones as Gemma and Bertie Carvel as Simon
Suranne Jones is reportedly returning for a third season (Picture: Drama Republic/Phil Fisk/BBC)

Gemma suspects that her husband Simon (Bertie Carvel) is having an affair, and season one sees her life unravel as she uncovers a web of lies.

While the second season aired in 2017, it’s been claimed that a third is in the works.

‘There was always a sense of unfinished business with Doctor Foster, as the storyline could easily roll on and on,’ a source told The Sun.

‘It went out on a massive high, too, with around eight million tuning in every week to watch the drama unfold between the three lead characters.’

The Missing

Before Baptiste, which starred Tchéky Karyo as the French detective Julien Baptiste, came The Missing, the show in which his character was first introduced.

Television Programme: The Missing with (L-R) James Nesbitt as Tony and Frances O'Connor as Emily. Programme Name: The Missing - TX: n/a - Episode: n/a (No. 7) - Picture Shows: (L-R) Tony (JAMES NESBITT), Emily (FRANCES O'CONNOR) - (C) New Pictures Ltd 2014 - Photographer: Jules Heath
Both seasons of The Missing have been highly lauded (Picture: BBC/New Pictures Ltd)

In season one of the anthology series, James Nesbitt and Frances O’Connor play Tony and Emily Hughes, whose son has gone missing.

It boasts a 96% Rotten Tomatoes score, with Robert Lloyd from the Los Angeles Times writing: ‘It is eight hours long, and I watched it all in a single sitting.’

Season two, which stars David Morrissey as Captain Sam Webster
Keeley Hawes as Gemma Webster, a couple whose daughter goes missing, scored even higher on the review aggregate site, with a rating of 96%.

‘A sobering, haunting and profoundly complex, yet profoundly human, crime drama. It is recommended with a caveat – it is at times shockingly dark and will disturb you to your bones,’ John Doyle wrote for Globe and Mail.

Happy Valley is widely regarded as one of the best British TV dramas of all time. And with good reason.

Undated BBC handout photo of James Norton as Tommy Lee Royce. in the hit BBC show, Happy Valley.Norton said is Sarah Lancashire has given the
James Norton gave a chilling performance as Tommy Lee Royce in Happy Valley (Picture: Matt Squire/PA Wire)

People across the country were glued to their screens when the final episode of this ‘masterpiece’ of television aired in 2023, with Sarah Lancashire and James Norton.

Metro‘s review read at the time: ‘No one, surely, could have been prepared for how the events unfolded as Sally Wainwright once again subverted the audience’s expectations.’

Writing on Reddit, a fan named SarcasticDevil stated: ‘It was incredible, just like pretty much every episode in the entire series.

‘Maybe it’ll never get much traction outside of the UK but it’s one of the very best dramas I’ve ever seen, and with possibly the strongest lead performance in anything ever.’

Hillbert also shared: ‘Alongside all the many, many acting plaudits, this was an absolute masterclass in how to tie up a finale. Pretty much all loose ends were sorted in a realistic and tonally perfect way.’

Created by Neil Cross in 2010, Luther – starring Idris Elba as the titular detective chief inspector John Luther – aired for five seasons until 2019.

TELEVISION PROGRAMME: 'Luther' with Idris Elba. THIS PICTURE IS UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL TUES 27th April 2010 Picture shows: DCI John Luther (Idris Elba) TX: BBC One
Luther will return in a second film very soon (Picture: Kerry Brown/BBC)

However, the Luther franchise has since continued with feature films, with the first, titled Luther: The Fallen Sun, coming out in 2023.

A second film is in the pipeline, which will see Ruth Wilson return as the psychopath and murderer Alice Morgan.

‘Neil has yet again, created a wonderfully dark tale to bring us all back together,’ said director Jamie Payne.

‘It’s a true joy to be back on the streets of Lutherland with the supreme talents that are Idris Elba and Dermot Crowley.

‘I am also thrilled to be reunited with the brilliant and dangerous Alice Morgan played by the extraordinarily talented Ruth Wilson.’

You can stream all of the TV shows mentioned above on BBC iPlayer.

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Britain’s Got Talent viewers brand launch ‘boring’ as they moan acts are the ‘same thing over and over’ and threaten to switch over to rival show


Britain’s Got Talent viewers have branded this year’s launch episode ‘boring’ as they moaned the acts are all the ‘same thing over and over again’.

Despite gracing TV screens for almost 20 years, BGT still has average viewership numbers of between five and seven million. 

But fans are now claiming it is officially ‘past its sell-by date’ as it returned for a new series on Saturday night. 

The first episode of the series saw a woman throwing buckets of fire with her feet, a performing dog and a dance troupe all take to the stage.

However undeniable their talents, viewers were left very unimpressed as they claimed the acts were all too similar to previous years.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, they wrote: ‘Same sh*** different year,’; ‘Same old thing as every year…just with a zillion people this time,’; 

Britain’s Got Talent viewers brand launch ‘boring’ as they moan acts are the ‘same thing over and over’ and threaten to switch over to rival show

Britain’s Got Talent viewers have branded this year’s launch episode ‘boring’ as they moaned the acts are all the ‘same thing over and over again’

Despite gracing TV screens for almost 20 years, BGT still has average viewership numbers of between five and seven million

Despite gracing TV screens for almost 20 years, BGT still has average viewership numbers of between five and seven million

‘Not watched this in years yet it’s still the same old sh***, magicians, dog acts and dance groups,’; 

‘Britain’s Got Talent reached its sell-by date long ago. I’m so bored of rubbish magic acts winning,’; 

‘Used to enjoy BGT Kinda going off it as it’s just the same thing over and over again,’; ’47 mins into the show and I am not even impressed. What has this show become?’;

‘Here comes the same basic dance group it’s been done before BORING,’; ‘Finally a dog act on #BGT Who’da thunk it!,’;

‘I don’t know why I bothered tuning in, it’s as terrible as ever. Far too many people are too easily pleased .

‘Love dogs but Seen all this before,’; ‘2 Rubbish acts and we’re only 10 minutes into BGT 2026!’

Some even threatened to change the channel to the BBC’s Gladiators as they said: ‘It’s kinda boring and wanna turn over to Gladiators,’;

‘Already bored of #BGT now watching #Gladiators which is set in my city,’; 

The first episode of the series saw a woman throwing buckets of fire with her feet, a performing dog and a dance troupe all take to the stage

A performing dog and a dance troupe also took to the stage

The first episode of the series saw a woman throwing buckets of fire with her feet, a performing dog and a dance troupe all take to the stage

However undeniable their talents, viewers were left very unimpressed as they claimed the acts were all too similar to previous years

However undeniable their talents, viewers were left very unimpressed as they claimed the acts were all too similar to previous years

The 2026 judging panel once again features Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon, as well as newcomer KSI

The 2026 judging panel once again features Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon, as well as newcomer KSI

‘As someone who doesn’t watch #BGT i hope #Gladiators wins this ratings battle. Come on Ellie for the Scots.’

The 2026 judging panel once again features Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon, as well as newcomer KSI. 

Needless to say, veteran presenters Ant and Dec will be back to lend their unique brand of comedy to the show – and keep hopefuls both calm and entertained backstage as they make their bids to impress the judges. 

As has always been the case, the show’s main prize is a chance to perform at the Royal Variety Show. 

The winner will also win a whopping £250,000 cash prize – an amount that has admittedly fluctuated since the show began in 2007.

Back then, the winner received £100,000 before the prize was increased to half a million in 2012. 

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, they wrote: 'Same sh*** different year,'; 'Same old thing as every year...just with a zillion people this time'

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, they wrote: ‘Same sh*** different year,’; ‘Same old thing as every year…just with a zillion people this time’

Some even threatened to change the channel to the BBC's Gladiators as they said: 'It's kinda boring and wanna turn over to Gladiators,'

Some even threatened to change the channel to the BBC’s Gladiators as they said: ‘It’s kinda boring and wanna turn over to Gladiators,’

This mega prize pot, however, wasn’t around for long and in 2013, producers settled on the current £250,000 prize.  

In 2025, the second-ever magician to win the show, Harry Moulding, won the show and the all-important cash prize and chance to perform at the Royal Variety Show. 

This would have undoubtedly been a real throwback for fans as it has been a decade since the show had its first winning magician, Richard Jones, in 2015, who also blew the competition out of the water with his impressive tricks. 

The show’s return will also look slightly different this year after Bruno Tonioli stepped down from the judging panel at the end of 2025.

He will be replaced by musician and internet celebrity KSI, 32, who has previously been a guest judge on the show. 


‘Euphoria’ creator Sam Levinson donates generous $27K to GoFundMe for Eric Dane’s daughters



“Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson and his wife, Ashley, donated a generous $27,000 to a fundraiser for Eric Dane’s daughters, Billie and Georgia, following his death.

The GoFundMe campaign, which was created by friends of the Dane family, sits at $171,555 with the Levinson’s contribution, as of Saturday morning.

The fundraiser was created with a goal of $250,000.

“Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson (pictured above with Eric Dane at the April 2022 HBO Max “Euphoria” FYC event) donated $27,000 to a fundraiser created for Dane’s teenage daughters, Billie and Georgia. FilmMagic for HBO
The GoFundMe was created by friends of the late actor (seen above with his two daughters and wife Rebecca Gayheart in a photo shared on Aug. 20, 2022) with a goal of $250,000. rebeccagayheartdane/Instagram

It was reported that a crowd-fundraiser had been started to help Dane’s teenage daughters on Friday, just one day after the actor died.

“Following his diagnosis, Eric became a passionate spokesperson for the [amyotrophic lateral sclerosis] ALS community, using his voice and platform to advocate for fellow patients and to push for greater awareness. Even as his own health declined, he remained deeply committed to helping others facing the same devastating disease,” reads the campaign description.

“As his illness progressed far more quickly than anyone could have imagined, Eric’s friends have come together to create this GoFundMe to support his girls and their future needs.”

The campaign for the two teenage girls (seen above smiling alongside their dad at the “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” premiere on May 30, 2024) has raised $171,555 so far. FilmMagic
After his death, Levinson and several other “Euphoria” cast members (pictured above at the 2019 “Euphoria” premiere afterparty) honored Dane with touching tributes. Getty Images for FIJI Water

After his death, several of Dane’s former “Euphoria” and “Grey’s Anatomy” co-stars honored the actor with touching tributes.

In a statement to Page Six, Levinson said he was “heartbroken” over the loss of his “dear friend.”

“Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift,” he continued. “Eric’s family is in our prayers. May his memory be for a blessing.”

Dane died Thursday at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS.

In a statement given to Page Six, Levinson remembered Dane (both pictured above taking a solo shot at the 2019 “Euphoria” premiere afterparty) saying he was “heartbroken” over the death of his “dear friend.” Getty Images for FIJI Water
Dane (seen above stepping out with his daughter and wife, Rebecca Gayheart) died on Thursday at age 53 following a battle with ALS. ShotbyNYP / BACKGRID

“He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife [Rebecca Gayheart], and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world,” his family confirmed in a statement to People.

“Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always.”

The family noted that the “Grey’s Anatomy” alum “adored his fans” and “is forever grateful” for the love and support he’s received over the years. They’ve asked for privacy at this “impossible time.”

In the new Netflix series “Famous Last Words,” which was released on Friday only hours after his death was announced, Dane was able to share his final words to his daughters.

The actor was “surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters” (pictured above posing for photos at the 16th Annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in June 2017) in his final days. WireImage
Dane offered his final words to his daughters in the Netflix series, “Famous Last Words,” which was released shorty after his passing. Netflix

“I tried. I stumbled sometimes, but I tried. Overall, we had a blast, didn’t we?” he started, before sharing one last lesson for his girls.

“I hope you won’t just listen to me, I hope you’ll hear me,” he began. “First, live now, right now in the present. It’s hard, but I learned to do that.”

“For years, I would wander off mentally, lost in my head for long chunks of time, wallowing in worry and self-pity, shame and doubt,” the “Charmed” alum continued. “I replayed decisions, second-guessed myself. ‘I should have done this. I never should’ve done that.’ No more.”


Why did Bruno Tonioli quit Britain’s Got Talent after two years as judge?


Why did Bruno Tonioli quit Britain’s Got Talent after two years as judge?
TV judge Bruno Tonioli said goodbye to Britain’s Got Talent earlier this week (Picture: David Fisher/Shutterstock)

Britain’s Got Talent returns tonight for the 2026 series – but Bruno Tonioli won’t be on the judging panel.

Instead, he’s been replaced by musician, YouTuber and former professional boxer KSI on a permanent basis, after he previously appeared as a guest judge.

The former Strictly Come Dancing judge hopped, skipped, and jumped from the BBC show over to the ITV reality competition series in 2023, where he took over for David Walliams, ultimately featuring in three seasons.

Alesha Dixon has been on the show since 2012, while both Amanda Holden and Simon Cowell have been on the show since it began in 2007.

The professional dancer, 69, had never watched the Ant and Dec-helmed talent competition before he came on board as part of the panel alongside Cowell, Holden, and Dixon, but quickly found his feet. So why did he decide to leave?

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Why did Bruno Tonioli quit Britain’s Got Talent?

Speaking to his followers, Tonioli confirmed that his exit was due to scheduling conflicts with Dancing With The Stars in the US, which he has been involved in since 2005.

Ant & Dec and Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden, Simon Cowell, Bruno Tonioli
He joined in 2023 but is now focusing on his commitment to Dancing With The Stars (Picture: ITV)

In a statement, Bruno said: ‘After three incredible series, I’ve sadly had to walk away from a job which has opened my eyes to so much incredible talent and step down as a judge on BGT.

‘And whilst I look forward to filming a new series of Dancing with the Stars in the US, I will miss the chaos and joy that BGT brings, as well as all the wonderful people I’ve had the privilege of working with.

‘They truly are a brilliant team who make brilliant television, and I know KSI will be a fantastic judge too, as he’s already proven this year.’

Fellow DWTS judge Derek Hough joked in the comments: ‘You’re all ours. Muahahahah.’ He is also joined by Carrie Ann Inaba and hosts  Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough on the show.

Why can’t Bruno Tolioni do Britain’s Got Talent and Dancing with the Stars?

Britain’s Got Talent will resume filming this year, with the next season launching on ITV in 2026. Meanwhile, the next season of DWTS starts on September 16 for season 34.

The Dancing with the Stars judges including Bruno Tonioli
He has been judging the US competition series since 2005 (Picture: The Walt Disney Company)
Bruno Tonioli
Similar reasoning drove his decision to leave Strictly Come Dancing (Picture: ITV)

Bruno’s exit was first reported in July when The Sun shared that it was looking difficult to juggle both shows for him.

Last year, KSI stood in for Bruno for some auditions in order for him to make it over to the States for Dancing With The Stars.

This year, after auditions were rescheduled to autumn, the clash became simply unavoidable.

The departure echoes similar reasons for leaving Strictly a few years ago, after trying to balance both shows, both sides of the Atlantic became increasingly difficult.

He told Daily Mail at the time: ‘There is no animosity, it was a mutual decision with both of us saying, ‘Listen, this is not going to work like it used to.’

KSI in all black outfit to a red backdrop on Britain's Got Talent
KSI will now take over his position as a full-time judge (Picture: Dymond/TalkbackThames/Shutterstock)

‘I just couldn’t do the flying anymore. I don’t know how I survived that schedule. To be honest, it’s a miracle.’

Celebrating his promotion, KSI (one of the sidemen boasting over 25 million subscribers on YouTube) 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.

‘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.’

Not only is KSI popular among the younger demographic, but it was his golden buzzer recipient, magician Harry Moulding, who ultimately swept to victory in the latest season.

An earlier version of this article was originally published on September 3 2025.

Britain’s Got Talent returns tonight at 7pm on ITV1 and ITVX.

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Nadiya Hussain ‘facing judgement’ for new job working in a school after BBC axe


Nadiya Hussain ‘facing judgement’ for new job working in a school after BBC axe
TV chef Nadiya Hussain has swapped the studio for the classroom with her new job (Picture: BBC/PA)

Great British Bake Off star Nadiya Hussain has turned her back on showbusiness and is now working as a teaching assistant after the BBC axed her cookery show last year.

The TV chef, 41 was one of the biggest breakout stars of Bake Off following her win in the sixth series in 2015, going on to front several shows for the broadcaster, including the award-nominated Nadiya Chronicles, Nadiya Bakes and Nadiya’s Fast Flavours.

After the BBC’s decision to drop her – something she still ‘doesn’t know why’ happened – Nadiya said she’d been courted with other offers from the likes of ITV and Channel 4.

However, she’s chosen to pursue a career in teaching instead – despite feeling ‘judged’ by some for doing so.

‘I’m currently working as a teaching assistant at a lovely little primary school. The plan is to hopefully gain some training and maybe in the future become a teacher,’ she told Woman & Home magazine.

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‘I had to do an application form, an interview, go in and sit in with the kids and see how they reacted to me. I did get people ringing me, saying, “Sorry, is this actually the Nadiya Hussain?” and I’m like, “Yes, it is and I am looking for a job and I would like an opportunity”.’

Nadiya's Cook Once, Eat Twice,08-10-2024,Impress For Less,4 - Impress For Less,Nadiya Hussain,holding her Thrifty Banana Peel Curry,Wall to Wall,Tom Kirkman
Nadiya, who was a stalwart of the BBC for a decade after her Bake Off win, is now working as a classroom assistant after her cooking show was axed (Picture: BBC/Wall to Wall/Tom Kirkman)
EMBARGOED UNTIL 00.01 BST SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY Nadiya Hussain in Woman and Home MUST credit Photos: Elisabeth Hoff and MUST use front cover ANY PICTURE ENQUIRIES TO PHIL.ATTAWAY@FUTURENET.COM PLEASE USE THE IMAGES WITH A W&H COVER SUPPLIED MINIMUM 7 CM HIGH AND 5CM WIDE AND WITH THE BELOW CREDITS CREDITS MUST INCLUDE: Photos: Elisabeth Hoff
She is eyeing a future as a teacher although said some close to her had ‘judged’ her decision to step away from TV (Picture: Elisabeth Hoff/Woman and Home)

Nadiya shared that she was ‘really enjoying being in an environment where I’m not the centre of it’, even though friends and loved ones had questioned her for taking a step backwards, as they see it.

However she brainstormed her career move with the support of her husband Abdal, knowing she could be faced with a fork in the road.

‘There have been lots of tears, sadness and judgement. People [close to me] have asked, “Why would you go from being here, right at the top to being at the bottom?” but I don’t see it that way,’ the TV star and author, who received an MBE in the 2020 New Year Honours, added.

‘Just because I’m famous doesn’t mean I’m at the top. I have been at my lowest at the top.’

She also insisted that since she started working at the school, she’s ‘had some of my highest moments’ because ‘nothing beats’ helping the kids she works with feel safe and achieve their goals.

Television programme: The Great British Bake Off, picture shows - finalists Tamal Ray, Nadiya Hussain and Ian Cumming. (C) Love Productions - Photographer: Mark Bourdillon
Nadiya became the first Muslim contestant to win The Great British Bake Off in 2015 (Picture: BBC/Love Productions/Mark Bourdillon)

When it came to the BBC cancelling her show, Nadiya revealed she had a ‘gut feeling that something wasn’t right’ after 10 years of a regular schedule between her TV work and cookbooks.

She was informed by her agent that the BBC would not be commissioning her to do another TV show and has still not received an explanation as to why from her previous employers.

The former Junior Bake Off judge said: ‘I appreciate that it’s an industry, it’s a business and it’s about making money, but I still don’t know [why they’ve let me go] because I haven’t had a conversation with anyone.

‘There are no answers, no closure.’

EMBARGOED UNTIL 00.01 BST SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY Nadiya Hussain in Woman and Home MUST credit Photos: Elisabeth Hoff and MUST use front cover ANY PICTURE ENQUIRIES TO PHIL.ATTAWAY@FUTURENET.COM PLEASE USE THE IMAGES WITH A W&H COVER SUPPLIED MINIMUM 7 CM HIGH AND 5CM WIDE AND WITH THE BELOW CREDITS CREDITS MUST INCLUDE: Photos: Elisabeth Hoff
She said she had ‘no closure’ on the BBC’s decision to drop her because the broadcaster didn’t share any reason (Picture: Elisabeth Hoff/Woman and Home)
EMBARGOED UNTIL 00.01 BST SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY Nadiya Hussain in Woman and Home MUST credit Photos: Elisabeth Hoff and MUST use front cover ANY PICTURE ENQUIRIES TO PHIL.ATTAWAY@FUTURENET.COM PLEASE USE THE IMAGES WITH A W&H COVER SUPPLIED MINIMUM 7 CM HIGH AND 5CM WIDE AND WITH THE BELOW CREDITS CREDITS MUST INCLUDE: Photos: Elisabeth Hoff
The author and TV star is the cover star for Woman and Home’s latest issue (Picture: Elisabeth Hoff/Woman and Home)

In a statement at the time, a BBC spokesman said: ‘After several wonderful series we have made the difficult decision not to commission another cookery show with Nadiya Hussain at the moment.

‘Nadiya remains a much-valued part of the BBC family, and we look forward to working together on future projects.’

At the time the TV personality took to social media to explain that she had always been made to ‘feel grateful’ for the opportunities she received, which added an ‘invisible pressure’ to not voice her frustrations or her desire for more.

And while she is not interested in TV work right now, Nadiya knows what would pique her interest to return, including more creative input in cookery shows.

She’s also interested in creating travelogues and documentaries ‘about issues that matter’, following her 2019 BBC One documentary Nadiya: Anxiety and Me.

The April issue of woman&home is on sale on February 26.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.


‘Heated Rivalry’ star Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova shares the secrets behind her stunning curls


Ever wonder what your favorite celebrities buy when they’re browsing their favorite boutique or shopping online late at night? Welcome to Six Picks, where we ask stars to spill their style and beauty must-haves — so you can shop like you’re famous, too.

As Svetlana on “Heated Rivalry,” Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova captured the hearts of millions of fans with her fierce loyalty to best friend Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) and her flawless, fiery curls. Now, she’s poised for fashion-world fame, having recently made her runway debut for Christian Cowan during her first-ever trip to New York for NYFW.

“I was nervous leading up to it,” Kharlamova told Page Six Style during a recent meet and greet at Times Square tech wonderland tm:rw. “I was even like, ‘Oh my God, do I cancel?’ I just didn’t want to have a bad walk. I didn’t want people online to clown me!”

But while the Russian-Trinidadian star described the experience of strutting the catwalk as “kind of foreign,” she’s been modeling for years — and knows which beauty products pull their weight. Below, shop six of Kharlamova’s favorites, including the conditioner and collagen peptides keeping her gorgeous ringlets in top form.

‘Heated Rivalry’ star Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova shares the secrets behind her stunning curls
Amazon

“The brown one, specifically. I love brown mascara instead of black; I feel like it looks more natural for day to day.”


Marc Anthony Strictly Curls 3x Moisture Triple Blend Conditioner in a yellow tube.
Amazon

“The secret to the curls? Honestly, yeah!”


Chanel Ultra Le Teint Ultrawear All-Day Comfort Flawless Finish Foundation.
Bloomingdale’s

“Stunning. It just makes you look like you have a filter on your face!”


Great Lakes Wellness Grass-Fed Bovine Collagen Peptides container.
Amazon

“My hair’s been growing so fast since I started taking it.” 


19/99 Beauty Precision Colour Pencil in Berry, with strokes of the color around it.
Amazon

“This Canadian brand has the most stunning lip pencils; I’m constantly buying more. I love a good lip combo.”


Kilian Angels' Share perfume bottle.
Sephora

“I’ve been trying to find a signature fragrance lately. Right now, I’m wearing this one, but honestly, any of the Kilian perfumes are great.”



Why Trust Page Six Style Shopping

This article was written by Elana Fishman, Page Six’s Style & Shopping Director. A passionate Swiftie and pop culture fanatic, Elana applies her celebrity fashion and beauty expertise to shoppable content for fellow fans as the host of video series including Currently Trending, Style TrialHeart to Cart and Beauty Scoop — and by tracking down every Taylor Swift-worn style so you can shop it, too. Elana consults celebrity stylists on the latest street style and red carpet trends and predictions, researches which celebrity-backed brands and products are worth it and chats with the stars themselves for beauty and fashion recommendations. Prior to Page Six Style’s inception in 2018, Elana covered celebrity fashion at Vox Media, Lucky, Marie Claire and Teen Vogue.



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