'I'd love to do dramas... play a real baddie'

Ahead of the final of Britain's Got Talent, judge Bruno Tonioli opens up to new about the series so far and his future goals

- WORDS: LAURA CARRENO-MÜLLER

It’s the Britain’s Got Talent final on Saturday — and judge Bruno Tonioli already knows who has stolen his heart.

“We've had a variety of talent this year. The Blackouts are insane,” he says. But it’s drag soprano Jasmine Rice who has his vote. He was so moved by her audition, he hit the Golden Buzzer. “That performance was absolutely incredible for me,” he says. “That was the most surprising — somebody that really rises to the occasion and exceeds expectations.”

Jasmine, who spoke openly about the rejection she’s faced for performing in drag, struck a chord with Bruno, 69. “Being able to be calm and communicate a message without bitterness and with hope, determination — that’s very valid. I found those moments special.”

As the final looms, Bruno's already feeling the heat - and the hilarity. This year’s top acts are a testament to BGT’s chaotic charm: from LED dance crew The Blackouts to 11-year-old guitar prodigy Olly Pearson. Other acts in the final include soulful singer Vinnie McKee, ping pong dancing troupe Ping Pong Pang, comedian Joseph Charm, and Maya Giotea - another Golden Buzzer pick from Bruno.