Controversial Britain’s Got Talent winner Viggo Venn has shared the reason behind his absence from the show’s final on Sunday night. The 2023 champion, a 35-year-old Norwegian clown, stirred mixed reactions when he won the top prize. Head judge Simon Cowell even called him “the most stupid act we’ve had this year.” Despite the criticism, Viggo walked away with £250,000 and the opportunity to perform for Prince William and Kate at the Royal Albert Hall.
Viggo’s victory did not sit well with everyone. Some fans were so outraged that they lodged complaints with Ofcom, despite the outcome being determined by public vote. Viggo admitted feeling “embarrassed” to claim the top prize amidst the boos heard when his name was announced, but he asserted that his win was “not his fault.”
Known for his unique and comedic performances, Viggo captured audiences with his routine set to Daft Punk’s “One More Time,” where he humorously stripped off an endless array of high-visibility vests. His act was undoubtedly one of the most memorable in the show’s history.
Following the latest final, which saw Sydnie Christmas crowned the winner, Viggo took to social media to offer his congratulations. “Congratulations to the new Britain’s Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas!” he captioned a video. He praised her performance and wished her a fantastic year ahead. He also explained his absence from the final, sharing that he was performing a sold-out show in Basingstoke.
In the video, Viggo addressed his fans from the stage, expressing gratitude for their support. “It’s been so fun playing the show, thank you so much! It’s been wonderful being the winner of Britain’s Got Talent for a year, but now I’m not the champ anymore. Congrats to the new winner.”
Despite his celebratory tone, the previous year’s final was not without controversy. Viggo faced boos from some audience members, and many fans were disappointed that inspirational dancer Musa Motha and opera singer Malakai Bayoh did not make it into the top three. The backlash continued on social media, with some viewers calling Viggo’s win the “worst Britain’s Got Talent result ever.”
Even amid the controversy, Viggo maintained a positive outlook. He reflected on his win, noting that the British public’s sense of humor played a significant role in his victory. “I was kinda hoping I didn’t win because it would be so embarrassing, but I was very happy when they said it. The British public have such a sense of ridiculous humor,” he commented.
Viggo’s journey since winning BGT has been eventful, filled with performances across the UK that have brought laughter to audiences of all ages. His unique act and the public’s reaction to it continue to be a talking point, cementing his place as one of the most unforgettable winners in the show’s history.