Britain's Got Talent has set the Guinness World Record for being the most popular reality television format in the world, having been adopted by 59 different shows worldwide. The announcement was made today (7th April) on the Guinness World Record website.

Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell created the format for Britain's Got Talent.

Britain's Got Talent was first broadcast on ITV in 2007 and an eighth series is expected to air this year. The format, which was created by Simon Cowell, has been used in versions worldwide. Cowell serves as a judge on the UK version of the show and an executive producer on the US version. 

Read more: Britain's Got Talent Most Watched Programme of 2013 In 'Eggy' Final.

Speaking to the Guinness World Record website upon hearing the news, Cowell said "I am very proud that Got Talent is a home grown British show. We owe its success to a group of very talented producers all over the world who have made this happen. And of course amazing talent." Meanwhile, Got Talent judging panels worldwide have been celebrating their recording breaking show with America's Got Talent posting on Twitter an image of their judges and presenter - Howie Mandel, Howard Stern, Heidi Klum, Melanie Brown and Nick Cannon - holding their Guinness award. 

Most countries in Europe and South America have their own versions whilst countries outside these areas with their own Got Talent shows include China, India, Malaysia and Afghanistan. More recently, Got Talent shows in Kazakhstan, Brazil, Moldova and Iceland have been commissioned. The various versions have spawned a number of stars including, from the UK, singers Paul Potts and Susan Boyle and dancers George Sampson and Diversity.

Read more: America's Got Talent Season 8 Finds Its Vegas-Bound Star.

The President of Guinness World Records, Alistair Richards, confirmed the news and congratulated the show. He stated: "We are delighted to confirm that Got Talent has broken the previous world record and is now the official Guinness World Record holder for the Most successful reality television format, a landmark moment in television record breaking history, congratulations!"

Susan Boyle
Susan Boyle has enjoyed a successful career after she appeared on Britain's Got Talent.