Ell of a way to start BGT
Pride of Britain winner helps pull in 9.7m
MIRROR Child of Courage Ella Chadwick starred on the launch of Britain’s Got Talent at the weekend – which pulled in 9.7 million viewers.
The Pride of Britain winner, 12, was recognised by host Simon Cowell as she performed in the choir Sing Along With Us.
He presented Ella with her award in 2018 for her bravery undergoing 40 operations and raising cash for other kids.
The 9.7 million peak viewing figure was the biggest launch since
2017 – and it had average audience of 8.6 million.
Jade Kilduf and little brother Christian, of Sing
Along With Us, were first on stage.
She said: “We were told that Christian would never be able to communicate. I taught him sign language so then he could talk and he’s here, a little miracle, proving everybody wrong.”
Jade revealed others wanted to learn to sign so she made a class and Sing Along With Us was born. They were then joined by more singers including Ella in the front row. The choir is made up of 37 children and 28 adults with ages from four to 58. They wore T-shirts printed with This Is Me – the song they performed.
Their version of the hit from The Greatest Showman moved the judges and audience alike to tears. Judge Amanda Holden said: “That song is such an anthem for people who maybe don’t feel part of anything. I just found it really, really moving.”
A tearful Alesha Dixon added: “I genuinely can’t find the words.” Ladbrokes made the choir 3-1 favourites to win BGT and Amanda said the BGT finals may replace The X Factor on ITV later in the year.