Amanda Holden reveals Britain’s Got Talent judging panel were Covid-tested hours after crew member fell sick backstage

0
308

AMANDA Holden reassured fans she’s been cleared of COVID-19 as she cosied up to her fellow BGT judges following a health scare on set.

The ITV star, 49, flashed a beaming smile as she rounded off a successful BGT series with David Walliams, Alesha Dixon and Ashley Banjo – with show stalwart Simon Cowell absent due to his fractured back.

Amanda Holden confirmed the entire BGT judging panel had been tested for COVID before posting a cosy snap

Mum of two Amanda was seen posing in her gold sequin studded frock sandwiched in-between the Mis-Teeq singer, in a lime green co-ord, and the Little Britain comedian in a suit.

Diversity star Ashley posed at the front, kneeled down and with a huge grin on his face.

To try to reassure those worried about the lack of social distancing, Amanda added the caption: “@bgt #2020 #final #family #bubble (before anyone worries we’ve all been tested!♥♥♥♥.”

She added: “And love to @simoncowell #missyou & congratulations to @joncourtenay & @antanddec.”

Jon Courtenay was declared BGT winner in the grand final

Amanda confirmed the panel had all been tested after the backstage scare

Thankfully the show was able to continue with stars warned about adhering to social distancing rules

Amanda was eager to flag her COVID test after a member of the BGT crew fell ill on set potentially risking the entire series.

HOAR was first to report how the male staffer fell ill on the Monday before the final and was told he had contracted the virus on Friday.

An insider told us: “All the judges, senior execs and crew were told but there were no super spreader concerns as he hadn’t been down to the set.

“No chances were taken and the need for social distancing was reinforced and everyone was reminded of the importance of no hugging or showbiz air kisses.”

Jon performed to a virtual crowd after live BGT audiences were scrapped for the final and semi final stages

The panel posed for shots to celebrate the series wrap

This year, BGT winner Jon Courtenay and finalists did not perform to a live crowd in adherence with mass gathering rules related to the air-borne virus.

Yet some fans quizzed why, despite being given the all-clear in the test, the panel wasn’t following the one metre plus social distancing guidelines in place.

One quizzed: “Why bother socially distancing on the show then xx.”

The panel were sat in a socially distanced manner for the live shows

Another put: “So, if the public get tested, can we mingle? If we live in the north but get tested is it ok to see our families? Meet in the pub? Have social gatherings?”

A third then commented: “Why can’t you all sit next to each other then?”

Yet others were quick to praise the reality series as a beacon of hope in difficult times.

One added: “It was such a good series this year, really gave us some joy i these terrible times ❤❤❤.”

Jon told how his win had helped pay off his COVID debts

Another continued: “Brilliant photo of happiness and Showman/woman-ship! The best guy won and you have all been amazing! Shove the complaints where the sun don’t shine!!!! 💗🙌🏼🌟.”

One BGT loyal then continued: “Aweee you all looked so gorgeous tonight (as always) ❤❤❤❤

An Instagram user then surmised: “Perfect pic of you four😍😍😍💞💞💞.”

Winner Jon previously told how the show’s £250k prize was a “lifeline” due to the debts he suffered during the coronavirus lockdown.