AMANDA’S ‘TENSION’ WITH SIMON OVER BGT ROW

Rumours have been swirling about the line-up of the Britain’s Got Talent judging panel ever since comedian David Walliams quit following a scandal last year. And insiders say there’s been more drama as Amanda Holden is said to be at loggerheads with her BGT bosses in a salary row.

Amanda, 51, has reportedly sent the latest series into turmoil alongside fellow judge Alesha Dixon, 44, after it was reported that the pair have refused to sign their contracts. The duo are said to be furious Amanda and the that new judge Bruno Tonioli, BGT judges 67, will see his salary match their own at an estimated £850,000.

A source previously shared, “Amanda has been on BGT for 17 years, while Alesha is going into her 11th year. They don’t think it’s fair a newcomer could walk into the show and be handed the same deal as them.”

The drama came just days before the show was set to begin filming again – apparently sending TV bosses into meltdown as they work to secure the TV favourites.

Bruno will join Amanda, Alesha, and Simon Cowell, 63, on the talent show. The former

Strictly Come Dancing judge replaces David, who stepped down after being recorded making derogatory remarks about contestants.

And an insider says that it’s been awkward for close pals Amanda and co-judge Simon – who owns entertainment company Syco, which produces BGT. The source says, “It’s a little awkward and there’s a bit of tension, as Amanda and Simon are such good friends. But Amanda is adamant she’ll stand her ground and is not letting it slide just because Simon’s a pal.”