**Former Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Andrew Johnston Acquitted of Rape Charges**
Andrew Johnston, once a household name following his breakout performance as a young choirboy on Britain’s Got Talent, has been acquitted of all rape and sexual assault charges at Southwark Crown Court in London. The verdict concludes a protracted and highly publicised legal battle that has overshadowed Johnston’s once-burgeoning musical career.
Johnston, now 30, famously enchanted television audiences as a contestant in the 2008 series of Britain’s Got Talent, earning him a record deal with renowned music producer Simon Cowell. However, his promising career was derailed when he was faced with grave allegations from two women. Prosecutors alleged that sexual offences had occurred several years after his stint on the television show, marking a dramatic shift in circumstances for the former singing prodigy.
On Thursday, Johnston listened as the jury—composed of nine women and three men—delivered its verdict. He was found not guilty on all counts. Visibly overcome by emotion, Johnston reportedly broke down in tears, at one point placing his head in his hands as the verdicts were read aloud. His solicitors later stressed the impact the ordeal had had on his personal and professional life.
During the trial, Johnston denied all accusations, insisting that both complainants had fabricated their claims. He gave evidence in his own defence, telling the court that the encounters in question had been fully consensual. He described his own conduct as “fast, energetic, maybe a bit passionate,” but asserted that he was never aggressive and always used protection. These personal details came to the fore during a case that involved intense cross-examination and forensic scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the alleged incidents.
The prosecution, led by Maryam Syed KC, laid out a series of specific allegations. One woman reported that although she initially consented to sex, Johnston removed his condom without her agreement despite her repeated requests for him to stop. The second complainant described a situation in which she felt increasingly uncomfortable as Johnston allegedly placed his hands around her neck during intercourse, then resumed the act without a condom. These claims formed the basis of the charges brought against Johnston.
Johnston, who was born in Dumfries, Scotland, and later moved to Carlisle, Cumbria, rose to prominence with an album that charted at number four in the UK following his television appearance. His professional ascent, however, was abruptly interrupted by the emergence of these allegations, which he told the court had devastated both his mental health and his career. He revealed that he had not performed publicly since the accusations came to light, remarking, “I’ve never sung a note since.”
Outside the courthouse, Johnston addressed members of the press, expressing relief at the case’s conclusion. He described the preceding five years as “super stressful,” lamenting the damage to his reputation and the uncertainty that had clouded his life. “People doubted me, and I’ve not been able to say anything for five years,” he said. “Thankfully, the right decision has been made, but I just want to go home now and see my dog.”
Asked about his future, Johnston said his immediate priority was to begin the slow process of rebuilding his life. “I’ve lost everything over this last five years,” he noted, reflecting the profound personal and professional toll of the proceedings.
The case highlights the lasting effects that public allegations and lengthy legal battles can have on those accused, regardless of outcome. For Johnston, who once stood on the brink of a glittering career, attention will now turn to whether he can resume his place in the public eye—and whether he can finally lay this chapter behind him.
Observers from the music and entertainment sectors will no doubt follow closely to see if Johnston makes a return to performing. The case also prompts renewed discussion about how allegations of this nature are handled in the media spotlight, particularly concerning famous individuals.
While Johnston has been acquitted, he faces the challenge of rebuilding both his career and personal relationships, with hopes for a future beyond the headlines and courtrooms.