Judges and fans have voiced concern after Simon Cowell unexpectedly withdrew from the Britain’s Got Talent auditions at the eleventh hour.

ITV executives confirmed the show’s filming at the Hippodrome Theatre in Birmingham on October 2 was abruptly cancelled, citing “unforeseen circumstances.” Many hopeful contestants and audience members who had gathered were disappointed to find the day’s audition sessions postponed to a later date. Speculation immediately arose that Cowell was unwell.

A spokesperson for Britain’s Got Talent issued a statement:

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, today’s filming of Britain’s Got Talent has been postponed.”

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Stacey Solomon Steps In During Cowell’s Absence

Reports now suggest that Stacey Solomon is stepping in as a temporary substitute for Cowell on October 3 while he recovers. Solomon, best known to many for rising to fame on The X Factor back in 2009, is said to have accepted the last‑minute call to help keep the auditions on track.

A TV insider told The Sun:

“If she hadn’t stepped in, the producers would have either had to run the show with only three judges or cancel the Birmingham auditions entirely — and they really did not want that. There were already so many disappointed people when yesterday’s auditions were cancelled, so bringing Stacey in was a lifesaver.” 

In her Instagram Story earlier today, Solomon teased her new role:

“Me & Dave are twinning today. I’ve been last-minute asked to do an absolutely dream job today … genuinely so excited…” 

While show representatives have not confirmed her involvement officially, many believe this is a strategic choice to maintain momentum and public goodwill.

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What’s Going On With Simon Cowell?

The auditions in Birmingham mark the opening round of the 2026 series, with more cities scheduled in the weeks to come (Blackpool, among others). With this being the first audition day, producers reportedly decided that postponement would preserve the chance for all judges to launch together.

Insiders reveal that Simon Cowell, age 65, has been feeling under the weather. A source said:

“Simon felt unwell in the last 24 hours. Judges sometimes miss an audition when they don’t feel great — Simon, for instance, has long suffered with migraines. Because this was the first audition of the series, it was decided best to postpone so we could start with a full panel. He’s on the mend now and hopes to be ready for tomorrow.” 

Other rumors suggest that Cowell suffered a bump to the head, causing a severe headache and exacerbating his known migraine condition.  He returned to the set by Saturday, albeit with a visible mark on his forehead. 

On social media, fans expressed their wishes:

“Hope Simon’s okay,” read one comment, while another added, “Hope Simon feels better soon!”

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Cowell’s Ongoing Battle With Migraines & Light Sensitivity

This isn’t the first time health issues have affected Cowell’s work on Britain’s Got Talent. He has previously opened up about suffering from photophobia (light sensitivity), which can trigger debilitating migraines under intense studio lighting. 

Cowell explained his signature red-tinted glasses as a safeguard:

“The red glasses are because I have lights in my eyes all day long and it’s like a laser and I get migraines — that’s like a filter. They actually do work.” 

Although the NHS does not officially endorse such eyewear as a treatment for migraines, experts say tinted lenses may help some individuals with photophobia. A study in the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience suggested that “lenses outfitted with a thin‑film optical notch filter may be useful in treating chronic migraine.” 

Despite periodic absences, a source close to Cowell told People magazine that he remains in “fantastic health.” The source clarified that his migraine issues are manageable, and he continues to maintain an active lifestyle—cycling, walking, and doing reformer Pilates. He also addressed rumors of a “mystery illness,” calling them exaggerated and noting that he had resumed duties promptly. 

Notably, his migraine issues have been documented in earlier seasons. In 2024, he missed parts of the auditions and explained the reason to fans on Instagram:

“I missed two auditions … because I do get migraines after long days in the filming lights … PS. This is why I wear these glasses!”

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The Changing Judging Panel & KSI’s First Day

Adding further interest to the 2026 season, Thursday’s audition round was also meant to mark the inaugural on-set participation of KSI. The YouTube sensation was confirmed last month as a full-time judge, replacing Bruno Tonioli, who departed due to scheduling conflicts with Dancing With The Stars. 

KSI had previously sat in for Bruno when he was unavailable in the 2025 series, impressing executives sufficiently to be promoted to a permanent role.He joins the panel alongside Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, and Alesha Dixon. 

On his confirmation, KSI commented:

“I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of the Britain’s Got Talent team for another season. I had such a good time last year and I can’t wait to see some more top talent. I’m full of energy … Let’s do this.” 

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What Happens Next?

With Stacey Solomon reportedly filling in yesterday, the production was able to proceed without having to scrap more audition days. The hope is that Cowell will recover quickly, and the show can resume with all four judges as originally planned.

As the Britain’s Got Talent team moves forward, all eyes will be on Cowell’s health, and whether his migraine struggles will pose further disruptions. Meanwhile, KSI’s full-time judging debut will bring fresh dynamics to the series.