Britain's Got Talent judges make confession after backstage 'ban'

The judging panel on Britain's Got Talent received a firm warning from ITV executives, it has emerged.

The variety show is returning for a fresh series in mere days, with Simon Cowell reuniting with Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and KSI, who is taking up his position as a permanent judge.

After magician Henry Moulding triumphed as Britain's Got Talent champion last year, another performer will be vying to secure the transformative £250,000 prize and the opportunity to appear at the Royal Variety Performance.

Prior to the upcoming series, Alesha disclosed that the shake-up in the judging lineup, with KSI replacing Bruno Tonioli who had previously succeeded David Walliams, unleashed Simon's "naughty side".

The 66-year-old entertainment tycoon discovered his Blackpool hotel housed a novelty shop, prompting him to purchase multiple stink bombs, reports Belfast Live.

Nevertheless, producers were far from amused, with Amanda disclosing: "Word got round that the stink bombs had been bought and the producers gave us a big talking to. We weren't allowed them."

Meanwhile, discussing the rapport amongst the judges, Simon revealed: "We were fighting over the golden buzzers a lot, that was funny."

Alesha told Metro and other media: "I could sense Simon getting up, and I literally dived. I've never dived before. I dived onto the desk."

She continued by revealing that producers requested she "recreate" the manoeuvre, as she remembered: "I injured myself just to stop him getting his way. But it was so funny. For me overall, this season felt like we were back to the chaos that we love on our show. More than ever it just felt really bonkers."

ITV announced only days ago that Britain's Got Talent will make its comeback on Saturday 21 February at 7pm.

An announcement teased: "Britain's Got Talent returns in the latest search for the most spectacular entertainers to hit these shores. This year, hundreds of hopefuls will be welcomed by award-winning hosts Ant and Dec before showing their talents to judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and new addition KSI.

"Performers from every corner of the UK and all around the world will be taking to the stage in the hope of not just impressing the judges, but also the voting public in a bid to win the life-changing cash prize of £250,000 and a sought-after slot at the world-famous Royal Variety Performance.

"The judges and hosts hold an extra-special power – the golden buzzer – which can give their favourite acts an instant ticket to the live semi-finals."

It added: "Expect to be amazed as a wealth of performers bring some of the most jaw-dropping, show-stopping talents to the BGT stage in the incredible new series."

KSI had previously appeared as a guest judge, stepping in for both Bruno and Simon at various points, while a source previously told The Sun: "Simon is always looking for new ways to keep the show evolving and loves to get the opinion of his young son.

"Eric was a big influence for Simon in choosing Bruno's replacement. He's obsessed with him and adores him, KSI is Eric's favourite influencer.

"Plus, he's been such a hit as a guest judge and Simon recognises they need to keep the show different by moving forward to keep attracting the younger audience.

"Bruno was popular with the grannies, but KSI is for the youngsters. KSI has a huge social media presence and Simon knows how important it is to keep the show more modern."

Britain’s Got Talent returns on Saturday 21 February at 7pm on ITV1 and ITVX.