Britain's Got Talent fans have been left seriously divided - with some even calling for the show to end altogether - after reports emerged that Bruno Tonioli had been "dropped" from the show.
Tonioli was drafted in to replace David Walliams last year but reports claim bosses have already eyed up his replacement.
It should be noted that no official confirmation has been announced by ITV, BGT or Tonioli himself but The Sun allegedly heard from an insider who claimed he was on the way out.
The root cause of Tonioli's potential exit is reportedly down to scheduling, with a source telling the publication: "Once it became clear auditions were starting in October, as opposed to January as per the previous 17 series, it became clear Bruno may not be able to take part.
"He's committed to the US, but the new format for BGT is non-negotiable because the show will effectively be replacing Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway."
The same publication claims bosses have already identified comedian Alan Carr to take over Tonioli's spot on the panel.
ITV BGT: Bruno Tonioli has become a favourite on the judging panel
ITV
Carr had been previously heavily linked to a BGT judging role following Walliams' exit but Tonioli bagged the gig after he quit the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing.
The same source told the publication that "conversations have only just begun" between Carr and the BGT team.
GB News contacted BGT for comment on the reports.
Despite there being no official confirmation on the reports, BGT fans were quick to react to the rumours online - and many are not happy.
That's a wrap on #BGT 2024, and what a series it's been... 🎬🥲
— BGT (@BGT) June 2, 2024
A HUGE congratulations to all of our glorious Finalists including our new champion, Sydnie Christmas! #BritainsGotTalent #BGTFinal pic.twitter.com/japvHV27oR
The entertainment fan account @SuperTV247 was one of the first to share the speculation with its followers and several quickly reacted with their verdict on the prospect of Carr replacing Tonioli.
"No please can they find anyone else? There's so many other potential people but they choose Alan?" one fan pleaded in response.
"It just gets worst just end it already," a second blasted before a third agree: "Oh please, just bin the whole thing off, it’s way past its time!"
Elsewhere, a fourth hit out: "Nothing against alan carr at all but i love bruno and he’s a brilliant addition i’ll be sad if he leaves #bgt."
"NOT ALAN CARR PLEASEEEE NO," a fifth simply put, although it wasn't all negative towards Carr's potential appointment.
Some others backed the news, with one arguing: "I love Bruno but Alan Carr will be an amazing addition to BGT." (sic)
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Alan Carr is reportedly being eyed up as a possible replacement for Bruno Tonioli
PA
Speculation over Tonioli's future comes just a few days after this year's BGT finale in which singer Sydney Christmas was crowned the winner.
Christmas wowed Tonioli, Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden with her routine but her victory was marred by a "fix" row which erupted among ITV viewers soon after.
The singer was the last act to perform on the night, which some claimed gave her an advantage over her fellow finalists.
However, she's since hit back at the "fix" claims, describing the reaction as "soul-destroying".
