Siobhan Phillips, a vibrant 42-year-old performer from Wakefield, made a remarkable impression on the stage of Britain’s Got Talent in 2019. Her journey began with a touch of humor that immediately captured the hearts of both the judges and the audience. With a twinkle in her eye, she introduced herself, infusing self-deprecating humor into her dream of performing at a venue where people actually paid to see her. This genuine and humorous admission set the tone for what would become one of the most entertaining auditions of the season.
With grace and confidence, Siobhan took her place at the piano. She framed her upcoming performance with a story many could relate to—the life-altering experience of becoming a mother for the first time. She candidly shared how this personal event, which occurred when she was “really old and tired,” fueled her creativity. The inspiration to write about motherhood stemmed from the adage that one should write about what they know. Siobhan humorously confessed that she had initially contemplated writing a song about cake but couldn’t find a fitting melody, further endearing herself to the audience with her charm and wit.
Her performance was marked by an original comedic song that was both witty and truthful, offering an honest account of what it’s like to dive into motherhood later in life. She began with a line that immediately resonated: “Had a baby at 40, what did I do? I haven’t slept since, I look 102.” With this opening, Siobhan set off a wave of laughter as she captured the sheer exhaustion and surprise that many parents find themselves unprepared for. The judges, along with the entire theatre, were drawn into her world, connecting with her sharp, relatable humor and intelligent wordplay.
Throughout the song, Siobhan spun a tapestry of perfectly observed details about the reality of parenthood. She sang with the candidness of a seasoned comedian and the frankness of a fellow parent, using humor to bridge the gap between personal experience and universal relatability. Through her lyrics, she shared moments of wishing she could “sink into the floor,” only to be pulled back by the innocent, irresistible smile of her child, reminding her why every sleepless night is worth it. Such vivid descriptions painted a picture that many viewers could see themselves in, reinforcing the communal understanding of the trials and joys of raising a child.
An enthusiastic reaction was elicited from both the audience and the panel as Siobhan humorously lamented the loss of privacy new parents often face, noting that “going to the loo alone would be a special treat.” With ease, she seamlessly transitioned into recounting wardrobe malfunctions—cheekily admitting to putting “a pair up backwards”—and her quest to regain fitness by considering another gym membership, snippets that echoed with authenticity and wit amidst the laughter.
Perhaps the comedic high point was reached when Siobhan outspokenly fantasized about her child’s future. In a delightful twist, she jokingly crossed her fingers in hopes that one day her child might become “Eric Cowell’s wife.” This clever mention of Simon Cowell’s son prompted genuine laughter from Simon himself, while also allowing a moment of cheeky rapport with the notoriously stern judge.
Siobhan Phillips proved that her prowess wasn’t solely in her comedic timing. Her strong piano skills added depth to her performance, complementing an infectious musical style that allowed her lyrical humor to shine. Her ability to maintain this blend of musicality and comedy is what truly made her stand out during her audition. As she concluded her performance, it was evident that her act wasn’t just an assortment of jokes, but rather a well-crafted narrative crafted from honest, humorous observation, giving a delightful peek into her world.
J udges praised her relatable, clean comedy, appreciating how she brilliantly articulated the universal struggles and joys of motherhood. Her unique blend of sharp humor, heartfelt insight, and undeniable musical talent left an indelible impression on the competition. Siobhan Phillips had not only captured the spirit of the evening but had earned herself a deserving spot in the 2019 series of Britain’s Got Talent. Siobhan’s performance was more than just an audition; it was an authentic celebration of her journey, a reflection of the humor and resilience that parenthood often necessitates, and a testament to her remarkable ability to connect and entertain.
