Britain’s Got Talent: Ant and Dec break social media silence amid uproar about ITV show

Ant and Dec have congratulated Britain’s Got Talent winner Viggo Venn on social media following Sunday night’s final. The Norwegian comedian was crowned the winner of Britain’s Got Talent 2023 and scooped the £250,000 prize money. He also bagged himself a spot on the roster at the Royal Variety Performance.

Viggo entertained the judges and audience members throughout the competition with his comedic talent and hi-vis jackets. For the grand final, the comedian forced Simon Cowell to wear a matching high-vis jacket and climbed inside a giant balloon.

Judge Alesha Dixon said: “You’ve captivated the nation. They love you.” Bruno Tonioli was equally impressed. He said: “I think your physical comedy is world-class. You have created one of the most memorable characters since Mr Bean." Simon Cowell added: “At least you didn’t make me look stupid tonight. I have never ever met an act like you in my life. I will admit it, I really, really love you now.”

Ant and Dec have since taken to social media to post a photo of themselves with Viggo. They wrote: "Let’s give it up one more time for your #BGT 2023 winner, @ViggoVenn," adding: "What a series, a huge congratulations to all the incredible contestants who took part."

However, the entertainer’s win has divided opinion from many people who have questioned if his act is actually a talent. One person commented: “It’s very rare that I comment negatively, but I can not believe with all the amazing talent in the final that this act won. What has the UK come to?” Another wrote: “Tell me what’s his talent? dancing around in a neon jacket like what is so special about him.” Someone else said: “Absolute rubbish when there were so many talented acts.”

Geordie presenting duo Ant and Dec were forced to apologise following Viggo’s performance as the comedian was heard saying, “s**t” when part of his act didn’t go to plan. He asked hosts Ant and Dec, "Is this live?". They later came onto the stage to apologise for the bad language.