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Ant and Dec Hit Golden Buzzer for Ted Hill as ‘Rule Change’ Puts MC Tazo Through on BGT

The episode underscored growing scrutiny of rule-bending around the golden buzzer.

Overview

  • Ant and Dec used their golden buzzer Saturday to send comedian Ted Hill straight to the live semi-finals, a perk that lets one pick per judge or host bypass the earlier rounds.
  • Viewer reaction on social platforms was split, with some calling the choice the worst golden buzzer yet and others praising Hill’s science-led, self-referential set.
  • In a rare on-air intervention, the hosts walked on stage to give MC Tazo a decisive yes after a 2–2 judges’ split, and Simon Cowell said he had changed the rules to allow the rapper through.
  • Later in the broadcast, Simon pressed a golden buzzer for Filipino singer Matty Juniosa after a performance of Purple Rain, adding another direct semi-finalist.
  • The hour also drew comment when Simon alone backed Japanese group Arubai, prompting fresh chatter about his judging as auditions move toward live shows for the £250,000 prize and a Royal Variety slot.