It has been reported that a desire to have a live audience at the auditions has been a driver in this, as producers feel this is an important part of the BGT package. The acts were due to perform in front of a socially distanced audience but Covid rule changes have meant that this is now not possible. A show source has told The Sun that Covid is "causing havoc" with the BGT filming schedule. They said that the "safety of the cast, crew and contestants is the priority" and this is "at the centre of every decision." (Image: ITV)The source added that "a live audience and their reaction is a vital part of the show’s success" so this has meant that producers have been prepared to delay filming until this is possible.

Source: Daily Mirror December 29, 2020 03:00 UTC