Britain’s Got Talent’s Brian Gilligan opens up on depression battle after brother’s death

Britain’s Got Talent singer Brian Gilligan has bravely opened up about facing depression after his brother’s death.

Brian auditioned for Britain’s Got Talent in Saturday night’s episode.

He spoke to the judges about working in the West End before a family tragedy saw him almost quit music altogether.

“Around this time last year by brother Dave passed away from a heart attack,” Brian said. “Since then it’s been a struggle just to build my confidence up.

In an interview with the Daily Mirror following his audition, Brian spoke candidly: “Dave had always been the anchor of our family, the glue that kept us together.

“When he died the enormity of his loss felt too heavy on me.

“I struggled a lot with depression, felt I could no longer sing and considered being a full-time teacher.”

Brian credited his family with helping him through the tough time.

“I had to dig deep to ask if I wanted to continue to sing. But mam’s words made me give it a final go,” he added.

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In his audition, Brian wowed the judges with a cover of I’ll Never Love Again from A Star Is Born.

David Walliams praised: “You sing with such passion and intensity, it’s really compelling. We can see how much this means to you. You’re a superb talent.

Alesha Dixon agreed: “”It was so delicate. You drew us all in. You did it justice. It was beautiful.”

Amanda Holden added: “I really hope this changes everything for you.”

And Simon Cowell concluded: “I don’t think you could’ve chosen a more perfect song.”

Other acts this weekend included the Gomonov Knife Show who shocked with their dangerous audition, which saw Simon Cowell end up in the path of flying knifes.

Comedian Barbara Nice got four yeses with her one liners while 13-year-old dancer Akshat Singh went one step further as he got the golden buzzer from Ant and Dec.

Britain’s Got Talent auditions continue Saturday nights on ITV.

The live semi-finals will take place later this year as the top contestants compete for a £250,000 cash prize and spot on the Royal Variety Performance.