Oscar-winning star, 92, axed from BGT main show

92-year-old Oscar-winning film star Shani Wallis, famed for her role as Nancy in the 1968 musical Oliver!, has sparked outrage among Britain's Got Talent fans. Her audition, where she performed "As Long As He Needs Me," was notably absent from the main broadcast. While the performance was later featured in the spin-off show, Britain's Got Talent: Unseen, viewers felt the iconic actress deserved a spot on the primary program.

Fans voiced their strong disapproval online, with many questioning the decision to exclude Wallis from the main show. Comments highlighted her age and legendary status, with some calling the move "mean" and demanding to know the reason for her omission. The sentiment was that a performer of her caliber, who has an Academy Award to her name, should have been given a more significant platform, with suggestions she could have even opened or closed the main show.

Wallis, who received a standing ovation from the judges and was sent through to the next round, had previously graced the BGT stage 70 years prior. Judges like Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden expressed admiration for her talent and inspiration at 92. Simon Cowell and KSI also acknowledged her beautiful performance, despite KSI admitting he had never seen the film Oliver!.

Despite her memorable role and critical acclaim for Oliver!, Wallis did not pursue the Hollywood career she desired, opting against a role in The Brady Bunch to focus on movies. The decline of movie musicals impacted her career path, leading her back to theatre and nightclubs. A difficult decision to move to California for her husband ultimately influenced her career trajectory away from the UK after Oliver!.