The BBC has confirmed the stars who will judge alongside Gary Barlow on their new talent show, Let It Shine.
Singer and former X Factor judge Dannii Minogue and Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp will join Gary as permanent judges. During the three stages of the competition, which span over eight weeks, the judging panel will also be joined by a special guest – the first confirmed guest is Glee star Amber Riley. As previously confirmed, Let It Shine will be hosted by Graham Norton and Mel Giedroyc.
The show aims to find talented individuals to create a band who will join the cast of a brand new stage show featuring the music of Take That.
Of the news, Gary said: “Dannii, Martin and Amber all bring so much to this panel with the breadth of experience in music, acting, stage and TV. I can’t wait to get started – it’s going to be epic!”
Dannii added: “I’m so excited to be returning to the UK and joining the judging panel of Let It Shine. To be a performer you must have a burning desire to perform, then you train at all the skills you need to shine. This show gives everyone that chance. I can’t wait!”
Martin also shared his excitement at being involved in the show: “I’m so thrilled to be a part of the BBC’s Let It Shine and taking on a role where I will be able to pass on a little of my 45 years’ worth of experience, in music, television and film, to young people just starting out on their journey!
“It’s a chance to find not just the most talented, but also those who have that something extra special called charisma, that literally will ‘shine’ from the stage. I won’t just be judging, but trying to give a constructive thought that will help them towards winning that incredible final prize!”
Amber, who will lead the cast of London West End’s Dreamgirls later this year, added: “One of the unique things about Glee was the covers of popular songs. They became the soundtrack to people’s lives, as well as the characters on the show. I am so excited to see what the UK talent has to offer and share some of my experience on the stage to help them reach their full potential. I’m not just looking for the biggest voices or the biggest personalities, but those who have what it takes to make it on TV and on stage.”
Let It Shine‘s judging panel have a wealth of experience under their belts as performers. Gary and Dannii have previous judging experience too, with both of them being X Factor alumni.
We’re excited to see how the show will unfold once it hits our screens in early 2017.
What do you make of the Let It Shine panel? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter @CelebMix