Former BGT winner Paul Potts exposes what really happens behind stage at live shows

Former Britain's Got Talent winner Paul Potts has exposed what really goes on behind stage during live shows.

The 52-year-old made history when he won the first series of ITV's beloved variety show with his spell-binding operatic performance of 'Nessun Dorma' back in 2007.

However, the former Carphone Warehouse salesman has recently opened up about his experiences on the show and has hit out at the creators for one particular blunder.

ITV

Almost two decades decade after entering BGT, the star is now one of the most well-known tenors in the world and has released five studio albums over the past 10 years - his most recent one being released in 2022, titled Musica Non Probita.

Since then, Potts has slammed BGT producers for how they handled one particular contestant, singer-songwriter Gamal John.

Potts claimed the ITV bosses picked the wrong song for John, who went on to miss out on a place in the final.

"If Gamal John was given the right song, he’s a finalist all day long. I don’t understand why he was given 'September' as his song – it wouldn’t have just been his decision, it never is," he told Sky Bingo.

The star went on to reveal just what happens when the cameras aren't rolling backstage, adding: "Acts have discussions with the producers, and they will guide you [picking a song and the type of performance] because often you aren’t armed to make that decision.

"The producers have got to build the shape of the show – it’s an entertainment show as well as a competition.

"You might not always get your way, and on this occasion, it wasn’t the right song for Gamal."

ITV

And that's not been Potts' only criticism of the show.

BGT fans were 'left feeling sick' over a 'disgusting' act and the crowd ended up booing a contestant during the live semi-final.

Audiences were left in utter shock over comedian Ichikawa Koikuchi's performance which saw him fart a rendition of 'Canon in D' - string quartet and all included.

Speaking via Sky Bingo, Potts revealed: "To be honest, I think he took up a space that somebody else could have had, who actually has a talent.

"No disrespect to Ichikawa, I’m sure he’s a nice guy but I just wonder whether it’s fair because he ends up being ridiculed."

Potts continued: “Unless he’s clued up about what’s going to happen and how it’s going to be, it could be a little bit unfair on him.

"It stops a place being available to someone that might have made better use of it. There is a space for a fun act, but I don’t think the live rounds is that place."

LADbible has contacted ITV for a comment.