The British talent show, Britain’s Got Talent (BGT), witnessed a historic moment on Saturday as the renowned dance group, Ghetto Kids, from Uganda secured the golden buzzer in the 16th season of the show. This coveted prize provides contestants with an automatic place in the Semi-Finals, making it a highly sought-after achievement for those competing for the prize money.
The group of five members captivated the audience as they appeared on stage wearing green African attire. Their heartwarming story of how they rose to fame through dance, accompanied by generous smiles, immediately warmed the hearts of the judges and audience alike.
During their stellar performance, Judge Bruno Tonioli was restless with joy, attempting to match some of the moves. Though the moves were too fast for him, he remained elated. Midway through the performance, a younger girl joined the team, forcing Judge Tonioli off his chair. Brimming with a blend of emotions, he exclaimed, “I have to do it now,” as he stretched his arm to hammer the golden buzzer.
The auditorium erupted in jubilation, with confetti raining down as the ongoing performance continued. This act became the first in the show’s history to receive the golden buzzer midway.
Judge Simon Cowell, along with Judges Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon, praised the performance, with Cowell stating, “That’s actually never happened. Normally the golden buzzer is pressed afterwards. He (Tonioli) gave you the golden buzzer, and you performed with the confetti. It was magical.”
The Ghetto Kids, consisting of 30 children sheltered in an orphanage in Kampala, Uganda, aim to make their lives better through music, dance, and drama, according to orphanage director Kavuma Dauda. “Ghetto kids is all about making their lives better through paying their school fees, feeding them, [paying] hospital bills, all the basic needs that a child wants,” he stated in a montage played before the BGT performance.
The Ghetto Kids shot to fame in 2014 with their appearance in Eddy Kenzo’s Sitya Loss song and reached the global stage in 2017 with their feature in French Montana’s hit song Unforgettable. Since then, they have performed on several global stages, including the BET awards and Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice awards.
