At just 11 years old, Olly Pearson didn’t just audition for Britain’s Got Talent; he arrived to claim his spot as a future rock legend. From the first electrifying chord, this young guitarist proved that age is just a number when you have genuine talent, passion, and a dream. His journey, from a lockdown hobby to a national sensation, is a testament to the power of music and the unbreakable bond between a boy and his grandfather.
Where It All Began: The Garage, the Grandad, and a Dream
Olly’s story isn’t one of expensive music schools or polished studios. It started simply, during the quiet solitude of the 2020 lockdown. Cooped up at home at just seven years old, he picked up a guitar for the first time, with his biggest fan and first teacher, his grandfather, by his side. That initial spark ignited a fire, and the Pearson family garage became his personal rock venue.
He didn’t just play; he devoured music, learning classic riffs and solos by ear until his fingers ached. Olly’s dedication was relentless, and his talent was undeniable. He eventually joined Wrexham Sounds, a local youth music center, where his skills truly exploded. By the time he walked onto the BGT stage, he was a seasoned performer in the making, channeling the energy of rock icons like Angus Young and the technical wizardry of Eddie Van Halen. His one and only goal? “I want to play Wembley one day.”
Did You Remember His First Audition?
Olly’s journey kicked off with a breathtaking audition that left everyone speechless. At just 11, he stepped onto the stage and played a fiery medley of AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell,” Van Halen’s “Jump,” and Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now.” His skill, speed, and passion were beyond his years, instantly winning over the judges and audience.
Amanda Holden’s Golden Buzzer moment marked a turning point, as confetti fell and Olly’s grandfather ran onstage, tears of pride streaming down his face. This wasn’t just a performance—it was the beginning of a rock legend in the making.
Don’t miss this iconic moment — it’s where everything started.
When Olly first appeared on the BGT stage, he was met with the typical skepticism reserved for a kid with a big guitar. But any doubt evaporated the moment he unleashed his aural assault. His medley of AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell,” Van Halen’s “Jump,” and Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” wasn’t just a performance—it was a statement. He played with a speed, precision, and raw soul that left the judges and the entire audience in a state of stunned disbelief.
The crowd erupted, but the most powerful reaction came from the person who mattered most: his grandfather. As Amanda Holden hit the Golden Buzzer, sending a shower of confetti down, his grandad rushed the stage, tears streaming down his face. It was a beautiful, full-circle moment that captured the heart of the nation. As Simon Cowell perfectly put it, “You’ve already found your sound. That takes most musicians decades.”
The Semi-Finals and Grand Finale: Stealing the Show
The audition was just a warm-up. In the semi-finals, Olly came back even stronger. With a medley of classics like “Thunderstruck,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” and “Livin’ on a Prayer,” he owned the stage with the confidence of a seasoned pro. This time, it was Simon Cowell who was so blown away that he slammed the Golden Buzzer, sending Olly straight to the finals.
In the grand finale, Olly gave it his all, roaring through a powerful tribute to classic rock. He might not have won the top prize, finishing 4th overall with a remarkable 10.4% of the public vote, but he earned something more valuable: the respect and admiration of millions. The internet exploded with praise, with fans declaring him the “future rock legend” and the real winner of the show.
What’s Next for the Young Rocker?
Olly Pearson’s journey is just beginning. He has big plans, from recording his own original music to rocking the Royal Variety Performance. He even hopes to one day “rock King Charles,” a fellow Queen fan, of course. Watching him, it’s not hard to believe that his dream of playing Wembley Stadium is closer than ever.
Don’t just take our word for it—see the performance that started it all.
Watch Olly Pearson’s full performance in the BGT final here: