Simon Cowell is reportedly stepping down from his long-running variety show, Britain’s Got Talent.
It comes after filming of the ITV show was halted on Wednesday due to the tragic news about One Direction star Liam Payne’s death at 31.
It has since been reported though that Cowell, 65, who founded One Direction on the X Factor, has decided to call it quits on the show following the shock news.
the Sun reports Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, KSI and Bruno Tonioli will continue to film the show as music mogul Cowell steps down.
It’s also been reported former Strictly Come Dancing star Tonioli will be acting as Cowell’s official replacement.
A source told the publication: “This news has hit Simon incredibly hard – he is utterly shocked and devastated.
“He adored Liam, and was close to his family with whom he is sure to reach out privately. He didn’t feel it was right to continue with filming BGT, and when it resumes on Saturday, does not feel he’ll be in the right head space to continue.
“All the judges and production crew are being hugely supportive.”
It comes after the show’s producer announced on Wednesday that auditions, which are currently taking place across the UK, were being paused in light of the news that singer Payne had died after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina.
The statement read: “Due to the tragic passing of Liam Payne, we have decided to postpone the Britain’s Got Talent auditions. Our thoughts are with Liam’s friends, family and all who loved him.”
More to follow..