Simon Cowell Uses His Golden Buzzer Just Minutes Into the First Episode of BGT 2025!

The wait is over—Britain’s Got Talent is officially back! As the competition to find the UK’s most impressive performers kicks off, 

the first episode of the season has already sparked controversy among viewers.

With Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and Bruno Tonioli returning as judges, audiences were expecting a night of dazzling performances. 

However, one moment in particular has everyone talking—Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer press just minutes into the show!

Simon Cowell Blown Away by Scottish Singer

During the Blackpool auditions, YouTube star KSI stepped in as a guest judge, filling in for Bruno Tonioli. It was here that Scottish singer Vinnie McKee took to the stage, hoping to make an impression.

A former bingo caller, Vinnie wowed the audience with his emotional and powerful rendition of “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers. His performance left the judges stunned, with Simon Cowell even admitting he was “speechless.”

As the audience erupted into cheers, they began chanting for the judges to hit the golden buzzer. The overwhelming support for Vinnie led Simon to make a swift decision—he hit the golden buzzer, sending Vinnie straight through to the live semi-finals!

Mixed Reactions From Viewers

While some fans were thrilled by Vinnie’s talent, others were quick to question whether the moment was truly spontaneous.

Many took to social media to express frustration over how quickly the golden buzzer was used. One viewer complained:

“I miss when the golden buzzer actually meant something and wasn’t just used whenever the audience begged for it.”

Another suggested that Vinnie was a “handpicked” act, arguing that his performance seemed too polished. Some eagle-eyed viewers even noticed that he was wearing a golden wristband, leading to speculation that he was pre-selected for the golden buzzer. However, this theory was later debunked—contestants regularly wear wristbands, though they’re usually less visible.

Despite skepticism from some fans, others defended Vinnie, praising his talent. One supporter tweeted:

“This guy really deserved that golden buzzer! He completely redefined what a soul singer should be.”

Another added:

“He was amazing. One of the best performances of the night!”

Vinnie’s Emotional Backstory

Beyond his incredible vocals, Vinnie’s journey on BGT is deeply personal. The Scottish singer revealed that he auditioned in honor of his late brother, Frankie, who passed away unexpectedly last year at the age of 47 due to a suspected irregular heartbeat.

Speaking about his loss, Vinnie shared:

“My brother was like a dad to me. He always encouraged my singing. When Britain’s Got Talent came around, I thought, ‘Oh my God, maybe things are finally looking up.’ My brother is watching over me.”

This emotional connection to his performance made his golden buzzer moment even more meaningful.

What’s Next for Vinnie McKee?

With a direct ticket to the semi-finals, Vinnie has already secured his spot among the most promising acts of the season. However, with the debate surrounding his golden buzzer moment, it remains to be seen how audiences will respond to him in the later rounds.

As BGT 2025 continues, fans will be keeping a close eye on whether more singers will receive the golden buzzer or if judges will recognize other types of talent.

Regardless of the controversy, one thing is certain—Vinnie McKee’s performance left a lasting impression. Whether he was truly an underdog or a pre-planned standout, his voice and emotional journey have already made him one of the most talked-about contestants of the season.

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