BRITAIN’S Got Talent judge Bruno Tonioli’s place on the panel has been saved by show boss Simon Cowell.
Filming the ITV series was set to clash with the shooting schedule for US show Dancing With The Stars — which Bruno has been on since 2005.
But Simon will fork out thousands to have the popular 68-year-old Italian flown back and forth.
A source said: “When Bruno joined BGT last year, he breathed new life into the show. Simon loved how unpredictable he was and thought he made great TV. From the ratings, it’s clear the viewers agreed too.
“When plans were drawn up to revamp BGT for 2025, it was quickly flagged to Simon and the producers that Bruno is already committed to Dancing With The Stars.
“Simon managed to find a way to make it work. It means while a stand-in judge may be needed once or twice, Bruno remains on the show.
“Flying back and forth isn’t ideal for him but he loves both shows and is committed to them.”
Former Strictly judge Bruno will start filming in the US on September 17 and on BGT the following month.
Comedian Alan Carr was initially tipped to replace him if he had to leave, but is now thought to be top of the list to stand in.
This week, ITV unveiled a format change for the show, which also features Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden as judges
It starts a four-month run in February, with live semi-finals on Saturday nights replacing nightly episodes across one week.
