'Since turning 50 I want to grab life BY THE BALLS'

Presenter and radio host Amanda Holden on ageing, diva behaviour and Britain's Got Talent gossip

- SUZANNE BAUM

As we gear up for the latest series of Britain’s Got Talent, much has been reported about the drama behind the scenes. After the shock exit of long-term judge David Walliams, there were questions over whether his replacement, former Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli, 67, would gel with the remaining presenters, with Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon reportedly being left seriously unimpressed with the former pro dancer’s rumoured higher salary.

But as Woman catches up with Heart Breakfast star Amanda, it seems the choppy waters behind the scenes of BGT have calmed. The 52-year-old reveals, ‘It’s hard work, but it’s an absolute hoot. I can’t believe I’ve been doing it for 17 years, and this time around things have obviously been a bit different with Bruno Tonioli replacing David Walliams as a judge. Bruno brings with him a completely different energy and it’s been nice seeing the show through someone else’s new eyes.’

And while Amanda originally backed her Italian Job co-star and best pal Alan Carr for the gig, it seems she’s been won over by Bruno. She admits, ‘Bruno is a really lovely man. He’s well versed, seriously knows his stuff and is bilingual, which is pretty impressive. It amazes me that he knows so much about art, too. People are used to him clowning around a lot, but he’s so clever and a true professional on the job and I hope BGT showcases that side of him. Bruno’s a ball of energy, so we have definitely got that in common.’