BGT Winners: A Full List and the Enduring Rivalries
Britain's Got Talent (BGT), a cornerstone of British television, has unearthed a wealth of talent over the years. From singing sensations to awe-inspiring magicians, the competition has launched countless careers and ignited fierce debates amongst viewers. This article explores the full list of BGT winners, examining the lasting impact of their victories and highlighting some of the enduring rivalries that have emerged from the show.
The Winners: A Decade of Diverse Talent
The journey of BGT winners reflects the diverse range of talent the show attracts. Here's a look at the complete list, showcasing the variety and impact of each winner:
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2007: Paul Potts: The opera singer's incredible voice captivated audiences, defying expectations and establishing BGT as a platform for undiscovered talent. His win cemented the show's popularity and set the stage for future success stories.
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2008: George Sampson: The street dancer's mesmerizing moves proved that dance could be just as compelling as singing. His victory showcased the show's versatility and broadened its appeal to a wider audience.
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2009: Diversity: This dance troupe’s innovative choreography and powerful performances demonstrated the potential of group acts on BGT. Their win marked a shift towards more contemporary and visually stunning acts.
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2010: Spelbound: This gymnastics troupe proved that athleticism and artistry could seamlessly blend. Their gravity-defying performances cemented their place in BGT history and highlighted the show’s openness to a wide variety of talents.
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2011: Jai McDowall: The singer-songwriter's heartfelt performances and unique vocal style resonated with audiences, proving that traditional singing still held a significant place in the competition.
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2012: Ashleigh and Pudsey: This dog act showcased the unique bond between human and animal, highlighting the emotional connection that could captivate viewers. Their win proved that unconventional acts could also achieve widespread popularity.
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2013: Attraction: This illusionist group’s breathtaking performances pushed the boundaries of magic, captivating audiences with their skill and originality. Their win showcased the enduring appeal of illusion on BGT.
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2014: Collabro: This musical theatre group’s powerful vocals and harmonious performances demonstrated the lasting appeal of musical theatre. Their win underlined the enduring popularity of musical talent on the show.
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2015: Jules O’Dwyer & Matisse: This dog act, featuring a clever use of illusion, sparked controversy and highlighted the ethical considerations surrounding acts involving animals. Despite the controversy, they secured a significant win.
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2016: Richard Jones: The magician's mind-bending illusions and engaging stage presence demonstrated the lasting appeal of magic on BGT. His victory showcased the enduring popularity of skilled magicians on the show.
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2017: Tokio Myers: The pianist's unique style and powerful performances captivated audiences, showcasing the versatility of instrumental music on BGT.
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2018: Lost Voice Guy: The comedian's unique brand of humor, delivered despite a speech impediment, resonated with audiences and showcased the importance of inclusivity and overcoming adversity.
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2019: Colin Thackery: This singer's traditional style and captivating voice proved that established artists could still make a significant impact on the show.
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2020: No Winner (due to COVID-19 pandemic)
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2021: Jon Courtenay: The comedian's witty observations and engaging style resonated with viewers, showing the enduring popularity of comedy on BGT.
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2022: Axel Blake: This comedian’s sharp wit and observational humour solidified his place among BGT’s comedic winners.
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2023: Viggo Venn: The comedian's unique brand of physical comedy and audience engagement set him apart from his competitors.
The Rivalries: A Battle for the Crown
While all winners are celebrated, certain rivalries have captivated audiences. The competition within the show, though friendly, creates a natural tension that leads to passionate debates among viewers long after the winner is announced. One prominent example is the ongoing discussion surrounding the different styles of acts—the vocalists versus the dancers, the magicians against the comedians. These inherent differences create exciting contrasts and fuel viewer engagement.
The impact of social media has also intensified these rivalries. Fans often take to online platforms to debate the merits of their favorite acts, leading to passionate discussions and sometimes even online feuds. This online engagement further extends the show's reach and legacy, turning the show into a cultural phenomenon.
Ultimately, the enduring appeal of BGT lies not only in its talented contestants but also in the rivalries and discussions they spark. The show continues to unearth new talent and generate passionate debates, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of British television.