Veteran judge Amanda Holden has opened up about her experience with recent changes on Britain’s Got Talent, candidly admitting that stepping into a more prominent role on the show was far from comfortable. The 55‑year‑old, who has been a judge on the long‑running ITV talent series since its early seasons, revealed that she “hated” temporarily taking over the central judging position usually occupied by fellow judge Simon Cowell after he missed filming due to an injury.
Holden explained that although she understands why producers asked her to fill Cowell’s seat — given her tenure on the show — the experience left her feeling “outcast” and uncomfortable. Sitting at the head of the panel forced her to lean into conversations in order to be heard, contrasting sharply with her usual position in the middle, where she feels more engaged and connected with the dynamic among judges. She said she would never want to take that lead seat again.
Part of her discomfort also stemmed from the difference in support she received while sitting in Cowell’s spot. Holden joked that, while Cowell often has staff and family nearby during filming, her own team was absent, “eating snacks in the dressing room,” leaving her to feel disconnected from the action.
Despite her clear dislike of the temporary role, Holden spoke positively about the newer elements of the current series. She praised guest judge Stacey Solomon as warm and funny, and welcomed the return of Cowell’s signature straight‑talking style, which she said is part of what makes the show distinctive.
The new season of Britain’s Got Talent is set to air soon, and Holden’s candid remarks — acknowledging both her discomfort and her fondness for the core judging dynamic — have given fans a behind‑the‑scenes glimpse into how the show’s evolution is being experienced by its longest‑serving panelist.
