Presenter and radio host Amanda Holden on ageing, diva behaviour and Britain’s Got Talent gossip
WORDS: SUZANNE BAUM. PHOTOS: GETTY, INSTAGRAM @NOHOLDENBACK, SHUTTERSTOCK
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
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.’
Much has been made in the past of Amanda’s sartorial choices on the show, with some outfits even sparking a flurry of Ofcom complaints for their skimpy nature. But after over 30 years in the business, Amanda remains steadfastly unapologetic for all of her life choices. ‘My husband Chris would say I’m a people pleaser as I just want to be kind, because that’s the most important thing,’ Amanda explains. ‘I also don’t care any more what people think of me; maybe it’s empowering or perhaps dangerous to feel like that, but this is the real me.’
Staying grounded
The star has been married to music producer Chris since 2008 and shares daughters Lexi, 17, and Hollie, 11. She may be one of the most recognisable faces on TV, but her family are there to make sure she keeps her feet on the ground. Amanda tells us, ‘I don’t feel I’m anyone special. My kids and husband would never allow any diva behaviour. I’m a lot
