Olly Pearson, known to many as “Guitar Olly”, is an 11-year-old guitarist from Wrexham who rose to national fame after finishing fourth in the 2025 series of Britain’s Got Talent. A natural on stage, Olly closed the live final with stunning renditions of Wings’ "Live and Let Die" and Queen’s "Bohemian Rhapsody", earning a standing ovation from all four judges. Praised for his technical brilliance and stage presence, he was described by Simon Cowell as “a brilliant, brilliant musician”, while Bruno Tonioli likened him to “a little Brian May”. The young guitarist was the only act to receive Golden Buzzers in both his audition and semi-final, a rare accomplishment that reflected just how much he had impressed the panel.
Olly’s love for music began during the Covid lockdowns, when a socially-distanced street gathering introduced him to the sound of the guitar. Inspired by a neighbour’s performance, he asked his grandfather, Lee Hughes, for lessons. The two began practising classic tunes from Lee’s youth—by artists such as The Shadows and The Beatles—spending up to seven hours a week together. Lee quickly recognised his grandson’s talent, recalling how Olly’s timing and feel for the instrument came naturally. Within two years, Olly had not only caught up with his grandfather, but began teaching him in return.
His incredible progress continued at Wrexham Sounds music school, where Olly explored his passion for classic rock and heavy metal. His audition for Britain’s Got Talent was a rip-roaring medley of Queen, AC/DC and Van Halen, which earned him his first Golden Buzzer from Amanda Holden. Reflecting on that moment, Olly said he was so focused on his guitar that he didn’t even notice the judges speaking. From the very first chord, he described the experience as “nerve-wracking” but “incredible”—an opportunity he seized with confidence and flair far beyond his years.
Despite his growing fame, Olly remains grounded. He still races home from school to pick up his guitar and is regularly asked for autographs by younger pupils. His mother, Sarah, describes his journey as happening “so fast”, but credits his constant practice and deep love of music. Olly’s performances on Britain’s Got Talent have not only made him a household name, but have marked the beginning of what promises to be a bright and exciting future in music.
