Simon Cowell tossed tradition aside during the latest episode of Britain’s Got Talent when he gave a second Golden Buzzer—something strictly against the show’s usual rules.
The moment came when Electric Umbrella, a vibrant rock band made up of neurodivergent and learning-disabled performers from Hertfordshire, took the stage. Despite all five Golden Buzzers for the season (used by Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, Bruno Tonioli, and Ant & Dec) already being claimed in earlier episodes, Cowell hit his buzzer again, visibly moved by the band’s uplifting original track, Acceptance.
While the crowd cheered, online reactions were more divided. Some viewers criticized the unexpected rule-bending, arguing it undermines the competition’s fairness. One user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “Sure, it felt good—but come on, there are way too many Golden Buzzers now. It’s turning into a joke, just like X Factor did.” Another added, “If Simon really wasn’t supposed to hit it again, why was there golden confetti locked and loaded?”
Still, Electric Umbrella’s performance was undeniably powerful—a joyful, emotional high point that earned them a spot in the hearts of many and Cowell’s second Golden Buzzer of the season.