Mickey Callisto’s rise in 2025 has been anything but ordinary. The Sunderland-born singer, just 28 years old, has gone from talent show newcomer to international headline-maker in a matter of months. His performances, comparisons to Freddie Mercury, and now a viral BBC moment have positioned him as one of the most talked-about artists to emerge this year.
The Original: “Bohemian Rhapsody”
When Queen released “Bohemian Rhapsody” in 1975, the six-minute epic defied every convention of radio and rock music. Written by Freddie Mercury, the track blends operatic drama, hard rock energy, and emotional balladry in a way no song had before. It became Queen’s defining work and remains a benchmark for vocalists due to its complexity and Mercury’s extraordinary range. Few singers have attempted the song live in its entirety, as it demands not just technical skill but an ability to capture the theatrical spirit Mercury embodied.
The Accusations and Response
Callisto first gained attention on Britain’s Got Talent earlier this year with a striking performance of Queen’s “Who Wants to Live Forever.” While the judges praised his power and stage presence, online viewers raised doubts, with some claiming the performance looked too perfect to be live. For Callisto, the accusations of lip-syncing were a sharp contrast to the praise he had received, but instead of retreating, he leaned into the challenge.
In September, he joined musician Julien Cohen and a group of 30 performers for a Paris flashmob performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody.” With fellow BGT breakout guitarist Olly Pearson alongside him, Callisto took center stage for Mercury’s lead parts. The video, which captured stunned reactions from passersby, quickly surpassed half a billion views across platforms and even drew a comment of support from Queen’s official account: “We absolutely love this.”
The BBC Moment
Still, Callisto’s most decisive moment came not in Paris, but live on the BBC. Facing lingering whispers about his authenticity, he chose to strip away all backing tracks and instruments, performing “Bohemian Rhapsody” a cappella. It was an audacious decision: the song’s layered harmonies and shifting dynamics are usually supported by full arrangements.
Standing alone, Callisto delivered each section with precision and emotion, moving from the delicate opening lines to the rock-driven climax. Viewers described the performance as raw and unfiltered, with one fan noting, “This guy sounds exactly like Freddie.” Clips quickly went viral, circulating across social media as proof that his voice was not only genuine but commanding in its own right.
A Career in Motion
Callisto’s year has been marked by momentum beyond viral covers. He has toured with Irish artist CMAT, released new music including the single “Supernova”—his best-performing track to date—and is preparing for a headline show at Dublin’s Grand Social Ballroom in November 2025. Tickets for the performance sold rapidly following his BBC appearance, evidence of a growing audience eager to see him outside the shadow of Queen comparisons.
While Freddie Mercury’s legacy looms large, Callisto’s recent choices suggest he is no longer content to be seen merely as a tribute act. His a cappella performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” may have started as a defense against criticism, but it became something more: a demonstration of individuality and resilience.
For Mickey Callisto, the journey from Britain’s Got Talent hopeful to global recognition has been fast, messy, and extraordinary. And if his BBC moment proved anything, it’s that his voice—unaided, unembellished—is enough to carry him forward.
