Britain’s Got Talent viewers were left concerned after judge KSI appeared to choke on water during the ITV show’s live semi-final
08:24, 10 May 2026Updated 08:59, 10 May 2026
ITV Britain’s Got Talent fans concerned for KSI after medical issue on air (Image: ITV)
Britain’s Got Talent audiences were alarmed after witnessing a judge experience a health scare during the live broadcast.
The popular ITV programme returned to screens on Saturday evening (May 10) for its third live semi-final, featuring various acts competing for the top prize.
The judging panel of Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and KSI – who has taken over from Bruno Tonioli – were present to critique the remaining competitors.
During one segment, the show came back from a commercial break with presenters Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnell addressing the camera while the judges prepared for the next performance.
The ITV show returned to screens
However, YouTuber KSI seemed to struggle for air after drinking some water while seated at the judging table. Numerous viewers watching from home promptly voiced their worry, reports the Daily Star.
“Is KSI okay there? Someone should check on him. He was choking,” one viewer posted on X. Another wrote: “@KSI are you ok? Was you choking on your water.” A third questioned: “Did anyone notice KSI was choking and no one was paying attention?” A fourth remarked: “Legit no one even helped him.”
KSI appeared to choke after drinking water
KSI – real name Olajide Olayinka Williams ‘JJ’ Olatunji – seemed to recover from the incident and carried on with the programme.
KSI officially joined as a permanent judge this series, having previously appeared as a guest in 2025. He replaced Bruno Tonioli, who departed due to scheduling conflicts.
His appearance on the programme has certainly proved popular with audiences thus far. Earlier this year, fellow judge Amanda Holden offered her perspective on the musician.
Fans shared their concerns online(Image: ITV)
When asked about what the YouTube star brings to the panel, Amanda commented: “He is super cool, really personable. To be honest with you, I feel like I’ve known him for ages.
“I feel quite protective over him, I don’t know why, a tiny bit mother-y. I think what he brings is that he cuts to the chase, so there’s no waffling. He sort of says exactly what he thinks, which is quick and succinct.”
Britain’s Got Talent airs Saturdays at 7pm on ITV and ITVX.