Jonathan and Charlotte became household names after their stunning performance on Britain’s Got Talent in 2012
22:46, 24 Apr 2025Updated 22:49, 24 Apr 2025
Jonathan Antoine and Charlotte Jaconelli left a big impression with their BGT appearance(Image: AFP/Getty Images)
Britain’s Got Talent first started unearthing opera talent in 2007, discovering stars like Paul Potts and Susan Boyle. But few acts have been as memorable as the teenage opera duo Jonathan and Charlotte from 2012.
Their breathtaking rendition of The Prayer elicited an incredulous “Seriously?” from none other than Simon Cowell himself. At just 17 and 16 years old, Jonathan and Charlotte captivated the judges from their very first note.
At the time, Simon, ever the blunt critic, suggested that Jonathan should pursue a solo career, implying that Charlotte could be a hindrance. Ignoring Simon’s counsel, the duo stuck together, even changing their name before progressing to the tense live finals on May 12, 2012, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The pair enjoyed a remarkable journey but ultimately finished as runners-up, with Ashleigh and her dog Pudsey taking the top spot, leaving Jonathan and Charlotte’s supporters disappointed.
By the following morning, there were already whispers that Simon was negotiating a deal for Jonathan and Charlotte, potentially offering them a £1 million contract with his Syco music label.
The duo went their separate ways in 2014 with solo record deals(Image: Ken McKay)
In September 2012, Jonathan and Charlotte went on to release their first album, ‘Together’, which included tracks inspired by legends such as Elton John, Muse, and Queen.
After captivating listeners all over Europe and climbing the music charts, the singing duo hit a pivotal moment in their joint career.
In February 2014, they announced the end of their musical union as individual solo pursuits from Sony Classical beckoned.
Sharing the news of their solo contracts and gratitude towards their supporters on their website, they wrote: “To now be offered our own solo record deals by Sony Classical is the most exciting thing ever.
“We are thrilled to be going back into the recording studio so soon.”
Charlotte has had an impressive career in musical theatre(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Now, Charlotte is seizing new opportunities with her love for the stage, captivating musical theatre audiences.
Her notable performances include ‘Carousel in Concert’ at The Royal Festival Hall and the original West End run of ‘Heathers’.
Her latest role was in Todrick Hall’s acclaimed production ‘Midnight’ in early April, which she praised on Instagram, 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 with his upcoming album after a worldwide tour and continues to perform in his local Essex.
Jonathan has had a successful solo career(Image: PR HANDOUT)
After their professional parting, Jonathan’s debut solo album ‘Tenore’ rocketed to the top of the Classical Artist Album chart.
Jonathan has also been in the spotlight for shedding an impressive five stone. He candidly admitted: “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.”
Reflecting on the changes he’s made, Jonathon remarked: “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.”
He also shared his earlier challenges and his journey towards better health, stating, “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.
“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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