The head judge was the first person to send someone through to the semi-finals of the ITV series

Simon Cowell shaking his golden buzzer act’s hand(Image: ITV)

Britain’s Got Talent viewers were left feeling very emotional by a ‘stunning’ act Simon Cowell gave his golden buzzer in the opening episode of the latest series of the ITV talent show.

The annual talent show returned for its 19th series on Saturday evening (February 21), 19 years after its first season was won by opera singer Paul Potts. Back on the judging panel was Simon, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden.

Following Bruno Tonioli’s exit last year, YouTuber KSI has been drafted in as the fourth judge, a spot that was also held by David Walliams in the past. The internet star, who is also, musician and boxer, filled in for both Simon and Bruno last year when both were absent.

It was a night full of talent, with a dance group from Liverpool, a man dancing with his dog, a woman juggling fires that were on fire with her feet and a magician all entertaining those gathered in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

One of the final acts to be shown in the opening episode was 53-year-old Australian native Paul Nunnari. Dad-of-three Paul, who is in a wheelchair, kept his talent to himself when initially speaking to the judges.

“My act is pretty unique, at the very least I want everyone in the crowd rocking their pants off,” he said.

Paul Nunnari received a gold buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent(Image: ITV)

Paul then proceeded to get out of his wheelchair by climbing red silks with only the use of his hands. Once he reached the top, another person came onto the stage to start swinging around the ropes until Paul was horizontal.

Flying in circles using the silks, which were attached to his neck, Paul took things one step further by blindfolding himself in an incredible feat of composure and talent.

“Everything was going great until I saw that, they’re called silk. I’m not a huge fan. However, I’ve now changed my mind. That was one of the most incurable things, I really do believe this, that I’ve ever seen.

“You’re so humble, nice and talented, and that’s why,” Simon said before hitting the gold buzzer and sharing a hug on stage with Paul as the gold confetti rained down.

Those watching Paul’s audition at home flocked to X, previously known as Twitter, to have their say on the first act to secure their place in the 19 series’ semi-finals.

@CongreveDylan said: “It had to be a golden buzzer! And for the second year in a row Simon Cowell was the first of the series to hit it. #BGT@MitchellWebb85 added: “Paul really deserved that Golden buzzer fair play to him! #BGT.”

@TheeQueenJay1 wrote: “Finally someone worthy of the golden buzzer. #BGT.” @itsmeBrisbane stated: “I am so glad he’s got a golden buzzer #BGT.”

@SHANEOfficial_ commented: “Now you can see why the standards I set, as a disabled person, for myself and others are so high in my Strictly philosophy: no excuses, everyone can achieve that greatness. Well done Paul xx #BGT #BritainsGotTalent @BGT.” @Poochface noted: “Paul was absolutely amazing. His arms must be so very strong. He definitely deserved the Golden Buzzer and hopefully will go on to win. #BGT.”