Season nine of You’ve Got Talent opened with a fresh face joining the judging panel. Florentino Fernández stepped in for Dani Martínez, who waved goodbye to the audience in the previous episode. The show also moved to a new venue, relocating the production group to the Apollo Theater in Madrid.
The premiere delivered a lineup of performances that captivated viewers and sparked strong reactions. One act, presented by Ichikawa Koukuchi, elicited a surprised reaction from Risto Mejide as the host watched the routine unfold with keen eyes and a raised eyebrow.
As the show began, the host leaned into the moment and pressed the red buzzer, signaling a desire to be showcased on the Fremantle produced program. While Florentino Fernández and Paula Echevarría studied the Japanese act with careful scrutiny, Mejide chose to step away from the judging panel and stated his reluctance to witness the act any further: I do not want to see this, he said.
After the performance, Mejide returned to his seat to offer his reflections on the moment. He was blunt in his assessment, describing what had been shown as insulting to the audience and expressing strong disapproval of the act. He used terms that conveyed his firm stance on artistic presentation. In contrast, Fernández recognized the potential in the young performer, and as the sole voice on the jury to express approval, he offered a decisive yes. The moment underscored the contrasting viewpoints that readers have come to expect from the panel, and it highlighted the tension that can arise in a live talent show setting. [Source: Fremantle]
The premiere set the tone for a season many will follow closely, mixing bold performances with the dynamic dynamics of a new jury lineup. The relocation to the Apollo Theater added an additional layer of atmosphere, giving the program a refreshed energy and a new sense of place as it continues to scout for varied talent. Viewers can expect a blend of surprise, controversy, and moments of genuine skill as contestants push boundaries on stage. [Source: Fremantle]