NEWS
Insiders say that Amanda Holden is gearing up for a big move and has reached out to close pal Simon Cowell to help her break America – but her hubby Chris is not so keen
She’s currently backon our TV screens fronting Britain’s Got Talent in her 17th year on the judging panel. But Amanda Holden, 52, could be set to depart the hit show that “saved” her career back in 2006, amid reports the mum-of-two is considering quitting the UK for a new life in America. The presenter reportedly spent the recent Easter break meeting producers in Los Angeles and visited the set of America’s Got Talent – which her BGT boss Simon Cowell, 63, also works on and co-produces. And it’s not just career opportunities on Amanda’s mind – her eldest daughter, Lexi, 17, is reportedly looking at universities in LA, Boston and New York.
RISKY
However, the plans have sparked tension behind the scenes, with Amanda’s music producer husband Chris Hughes said to be unsure, and worrying that trying to break America is a risky move.
A source close to Amanda – who also shares 11-year-old daughter, Hollie, with Chris – says, “She’s seriously contemplating this move, it feels like the time is right. Amanda really enjoyed her visit to the set of AGT, meeting judges Heidi Klum and Sofia Vergara – and the producers absolutely loved her.”
After initially putting her £5 million Surrey “dream home” on the market for a while last year, the star relisted the sprawling five-bedroom property last month.
And pals say, following a very successful trip, coupled with Lexi’s desire to study Stateside, Amanda has her heart set on moving to LA. She feels that her time on British TV could be over.
APPREHENSIVE
The source adds, “Amanda’s always loved the Californian lifestyle and moving there has often been something she’s thought about, but it was never the right time when the girls were younger.
“During their trip, she spent a lot of time with Simon’s fiancée, Lauren Silverman, who she’s very close to, and seeing how wonderful the life is out there with the weather and all the opportunities – not only for her and Chris but for the girls too – she said it felt like such an obvious move and she’s now tentatively setting the wheels in motion to give it a go.
“Chris does a lot of work in America too, so it makes sense for both of them. And while previously she wouldn’t have wanted to uproot the kids, with Lexi wanting to study there and Hollie about to start secondary school, it makes much more sense now.”
However, despite looking at two homes there and checking out Malibu High School – and even talking to former EastEnders star Patsy
