Colin Thackery, an 88-year-old Chelsea Pensioner, introduced himself wearing his distinctive scarlet uniform, immediately commanding respect and affection from the audience and the judges. He shared a deeply poignant and romantic story: he was married for 66 years to his beloved wife, Joan, who tragically died in his arms in 2016. Colin dedicated his presence on the stage, and indeed his performance, entirely to her, whom he credited with being the gentle support that helped him find success in the army. The high emotional stakes were clear, as this was not just a song, but a final, public tribute to the love of his life.
For his audition, Colin chose to sing “The Wind Beneath My Wings,” dedicating the classic Bette Midler anthem to Joan. His rendition was delivered with a gentle, sincere vocal performance that was utterly brimming with emotion and love. The sincerity of his tribute was so powerful that it reduced the entire auditorium to tears—there was not a dry eye in the house. The simple, heartfelt way he conveyed his profound grief and unending love through the music was truly unforgettable, demonstrating the deep connection between his life story and the song’s lyrics.
The judges were deeply moved, with Amanda Holden calling the performance the “most perfect tribute” and praising him for performing with such “heart.” David Walliams took the emotional impact even further, connecting the song to Colin’s military service, stating that all the men and women who fought for their country “are the wind beneath our wings.” Recognizing his sincerity and the emotional power of his story and song, the panel unanimously voted to send the Chelsea Pensioner through with four emphatic “yeses,” guaranteeing that his wife’s memory would shine brightly on the BGT stage.
