Amanda Holden: Talent Show Icon and Charity Champion
Sydney, 8 January 2026 – Amanda Holden, the beloved Britain’s Got Talent judge and Heart Breakfast co-host, continues to captivate audiences with her bold fashion choices and philanthropic efforts, marking a new year with glamorous celebrations and ongoing commitments to causes close to her heart.
Career Highlights
Amanda Louise Holden, born on 16 February 1971, is an English media personality, actress, and singer. She rose to prominence as a judge on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent since 2007, alongside Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, and Bruno Tonioli. Holden has also co-hosted the national Heart Breakfast radio show with Jamie Theakston since 2019. Her television credits include presenting Text Santa in 2015, I’ve Got Something To Tell You in 2016, and appearing as Miss Pentangle in CBBC’s The Worst Witch in 2017. In 2022, she made a guest appearance in the Australian soap opera Neighbours as Harriet Wallace, filming in London. Holden’s film roles include Pamela in Intimate Relations (1996) and a shoe-shop assistant in Virtual Sexuality (1999), with an uncredited part in One Chance (2013).
Recent Public Appearances
In early January 2026, Holden stunned at New Year’s Eve celebrations in a plunging navy dress, posing with her lookalike daughters. She also recreated the iconic Basic Instinct scene in a leather mini-skirt and knee-high boots, insisting she was wearing underwear. Earlier, she stepped out with her 14-year-old daughter Hollie in a similar outfit, showcasing her signature style. These appearances highlight her playful persona, despite past controversies over risqué outfits on Britain’s Got Talent that drew Ofcom complaints, including 633 in 2017 for a sheer Julien Macdonald dress.
Scandals and Controversies
Holden’s career has not been without drama. In 2006, she had a five-week affair with actor Neil Morrissey, which she later defended. She faced backlash for comments on Heart Radio in 2023, praising the late Paul O’Grady for not being “woke.” On Britain’s Got Talent, her daring dresses sparked numerous complaints, such as 235 in 2020 for a low-cut gown. In 2025, she was booed for critiquing contestants and slammed for a “snobby” remark to a supermarket worker. Despite this, Holden embraces her style, stating outfits are pre-approved and fun.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 54 (as of 2026) |
| Key Roles | BGT Judge (since 2007), Heart Breakfast Co-Host (since 2019), Actress in Neighbours (2022) |
| Ofcom Complaints | Over 1,000 total for outfits, peaking at 633 in 2017 |
| Charity Focus | Heart health, animal welfare, NHS support |
Charity Work
Holden is deeply involved in philanthropy. She fronted Everton FC’s breast cancer campaign in 2007 and ran the London Marathon in 2008 for the Born Free Foundation. In 2020, she participated in fancy dress fitness events for the British Heart Foundation. She supports Global’s Make Some Noise, raising funds for charities like Tiny Tickers and Harry’s HAT. Holden released a cover of “Over The Rainbow” in 2020 to aid the NHS, donating proceeds. Other causes include Education Africa, Epilepsy Action, and Sophie’s Gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Amanda Holden?
Amanda Holden is an English media personality, actress, and singer best known as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent and co-host of Heart Breakfast.
What are some of Amanda Holden’s most controversial moments?
Her risqué outfits on Britain’s Got Talent have led to over 1,000 Ofcom complaints, and she faced criticism for personal comments and an affair with Neil Morrissey.
How does Amanda Holden contribute to charity?
She supports causes like heart health, animal welfare, and the NHS through marathons, fundraisers, and music releases, including a debut single for NHS funds.