Britain’s Got Talent viewers have defended Amanda Holden after she was criticised for a comment she made to a Manchester bomb survivor during Wednesday’s semi-final.
13-year-old Hollie Booth, who uses a wheelchair after suffering two broken legs in the attack last May, took to the stage to perform with her dance group Rise Unbroken.
Following their incredible performance, Amanda praised the group and said she was “blown away” by their routine.
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The judge said: “I have to say when we first saw you, as a judging panel, we were blown away by your unity and your support for Hollie.
“Your whole story was so emotional and it was a really good audition. But now I can see that you are fantastic dancers as well.”
“Hollie tonight you have come on leaps and bounds,” she added. “Your recovery looks like it’s going really really well. You did so well. You did yourselves and Manchester proud.”
Although Amanda clearly had good intentions, her choice of words didn’t go down well with all viewers.
One person tweeted: “@AmandaHolden probably best not to tell a bomb victim/survivor you were blown away by their performance.”
Another ranted: “Seriously, Amanda? Great choice of words.”
Others were quick to defend Amanda, with one person saying her comments were “meant with best of intentions.”
Another called the criticism “rubbish”, while a third said: “It’s live TV on a major show and she expressed her emotions in a way that came naturally.”
Hollie and her inspirational dance troupe gripped the hearts of the nation with their audition last month.
The teenager was caught up in the attack at an Ariana Grande concert last year and was shielded by her aunt Kelly Brester, who was one of the 22 people killed in the atrocity.
Hollie broke her right knee and left foot and has been left with nerve damage.
She now performs in a wheelchair and all members of the group incorporate wheelchairs into their routine.
Last night, Simon Cowell said he was “so proud” of the group.
He said: “What you’ve done is, through your friendship and perseverance, you – whatever happens – have won.
“That’s the most important thing. I am in awe. I am proud of all of you by the way. I have total respect and admiration. I love what you’re wearing. Great great job.”
The semi-final saw comedian Robert White and singer Gruffydd Wyn Roberts go through to Sunday night’s final.
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