Britain's Got Talent opera icons Jonathan and Charlotte now after Simon Cowell split
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Britain's Got Talent has been a launchpad for opera sensations over its 18-year run, with Paul Potts and Susan Boyle being just two of the big names that found stardom on the ITV stage. Cast your minds back to 2012 when the teen opera duo Jonathan and Charlotte left audiences stunned, prompting a shocked reaction from Simon Cowell who blurted out "Seriously?".
At just 17 and 16 years old, the pair wowed the judges from the outset, delivering a powerful performance of 'The Prayer'. Ever the straight-talker, Simon suggested Jonathan might be better off going solo, hinting that Charlotte could hold him back.
Undeterred by the music tycoon's comments, the duo remained united, even reversing their name before heading into the nail-biting live finals on the unforgettable date of May 12, 2012.
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Despite a remarkable journey, Jonathan and Charlotte ultimately finished as runners-up to winners Ashleigh and her dog Pudsey, sparking outrage among their ardent fans.
After coming second in a competition of 70,000 entrants, an ecstatic Charlotte was quoted by Wales Online saying, "Oh my God, we came second out of 70,000 people, it's incredible, it's been amazing", reports the Mirror.
Rumours were rife by the following morning that Simon Cowell was already in talks to sign Jonathan and Charlotte to his Syco label with a hefty £1 million record deal.
(Image: Redferns via Getty Images)
(Image: Ken McKay)
(Image: AFP/Getty Images)
Come September 2012, the pair released their debut album 'Together', featuring Italian covers of songs from legendary artists such as Elton John, Muse, and Queen.
After dazzling Europe with their tours and churning out another hit, singing duo Jonathan and Charlotte reached a turning point in their career. In February 2014, they announced the end of their joint musical efforts when Sony Classical presented them with tantalising solo opportunities.
The duo shared an emotional note on their official website, looking back on their remarkable path since their first encounter at West Hatch High School in 2006: "We have had the most exciting journey together ever since meeting at West Hatch High School in 2006 and are so happy for each other."
They looked back fondly on their breakout as Britain's Got Talent finalists and chart-topping musicians: "To come second on BGT and sell over quarter of a million albums was beyond our wildest dreams."
Overflowing with enthusiasm, they revealed their individual paths, expressing deep appreciation for their fans: "To now be offered our own solo record deals by Sony Classical is the most exciting thing ever and we are thrilled to be going back into the recording studio so soon."
Above all, they showed gratitude towards those who've supported them throughout their journey: "For those that voted for us, bought our CDs and saw us in concert – thank you. We hope to see you soon at our own shows. Love Jonathan and Charlotte."
Charlotte is taking the musical theatre world by storm, having lit up the stage in "Carousel in Concert" at The Royal Festival Hall and being part of the original cast of "Heathers" in London's West End.
She recently won over TikTok users with a humorous video where she quipped about her resemblance to the famous Charlotte from 'Jonathan and Charlotte,' captioning it: "Simon Cowell hated me but then he got me Kurt Geiger's for xmas."
In the clip, she amusingly confirms her identity when people compare her to the well-known Charlotte, responding with a cheeky "probably because I am".
Charlotte's most recent gig was in Todrick Hall's latest hit "Midnight" which premiered earlier in April. She took to Instagram to share her excitement, saying: "This show has been one of the most fulfilling and rewarding shows I've ever worked on.
"I've laughed and cried every day, watched the most talented humans create, and been giddy to see what would happen each day."
Meanwhile, Jonathan is busy working on his new album following a global tour and continues to perform in his hometown of Essex.
Following their break-up, he soared to the top of the Classical Artist Album chart with his debut solo album, 'Tenore'. Grateful for the overwhelming support, he expressed his thanks on social media, saying: "Your kindness in allowing me to explore all kinds of music and your superlative taste in good tunes has led the way! !".
In recent times, Jonathon has captured attention with a stunning weight loss achievement, shedding five stone. Previously recognising a lack of self-control, he has shared: "I've still got a lot to lose but I'm making my way. I feel stronger and healthier than I have in 10 years, which is a lot."
He has also made it clear that this year marks a significant change in his outlook, claiming: "This year I've made an active choice. I've felt I've lacked the discipline a lot. When I was out in America it's fast food everywhere."
At the start of the year, he said he wasn't in the best place, but has since made strides in improvement: "I was in a terrible state in the start of the year and I've been able to claw my way back doing light exercise."
Reflecting on his past approach to life, he concluded with a burst of optimism: "For a long time I was just experiencing life, letting life live me, trying to find the next pleasure. Taking control of your own life, grabbing the world with your hands, feels amazing."
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