Strangford grandmother ‘absolutely proud’ of singer Travis George in Britain’s Got Talent final

Strangford grandmother ‘absolutely proud’ of singer Travis George in Britain’s Got Talent final

14 June 2023

THE Strangford grandmother of Britain’s Got Talent finalist Travis George has spoken of her pride in his performance which was watched by millions of television viewers across the UK.

Travis — who lives in Cwmbran in Wales with his mother — finished eighth in the 16th series of the show’s finale which aired two weeks ago, with the judges blown away by his performance.

Kathleen Smyth said she was very proud her 22 year-old grandson whom, she revealed, is very humble.

Travis, who has previously featured in the BBC series The A Word and the hugely popular medical drama Casualty, impressed the Britain’s Got Talent judges with his performances which included a rendition of ‘Stars’ and ‘Bring Him Home’ from Les Miserables.

New BGT judge Bruno Tonioli told Travis he “could walk into a Westend or Broadway show tomorrow.”

In the final, Travis sang the iconic “This is Me” from The Greatest Showman, which was lauded by all the judges.

Alesha Dixon said: “You wear your heart on your sleeve, you’re so passionate and I know how much this means to you.”

Amanda Holden added, “When you hit those big notes it’s so, so wonderful and I know there’s even more to come from you. I just feel like someone’s going to sign you up, someone’s got to give you a deal.”

Simon Cowell, who was previously critical of Travis choosing the ‘safe’ option, stated: “You could have done the obvious thing, which is to sing another Les Mis song.

“However, to put your twist on one of the best-loved songs in the last five or six years…whatever it is, is amazing. I really like you. 

“I really hope this will change your life for the better. I think you’re a nice guy, great singer and that was a great, great performance to me.”

Bruno added: “You took this song and gave it a completely different interpretation. Amazing, I loved the fire and the passion.”

Travis added:  “I don’t want to make it all woe is me, but as someone who struggled with anxiety…to be at the finals of Britains Got Talent is unbelievable.

Grandmother Kathleen said she was “absolutely proud” of Travis and all the other grand final performers.

She continued: “Travis was over the moon. He was very shy as a child as he has autism. He didn’t have any friends in school and then all of a sudden music came into his life and he knew he could sing. It was good fun and to be somebody. 

“He’s so humble; such a humble boy. He likes everyone and wants everyone to win.”

Advising those who may struggle with their autism or shyness, Kathleen added: “I would say whatever they want to do, get it and do it. Travis has done it. If Travis can do it, anyone can do it.”