Well, maybe “despite”, inasmuch as anybody who already decided that they will support Susan and only Susan all the way, no matter who else shows up, may not wish to boost “competitor” ratings…?

But on the other hand, I would reckon that Hollie’s youtube success may also be *due* to Susan’s prior success in a way – because Susan was the one who brought enormous public attention and exposure to the youtube videos of the BGT show. I, for one, have never followed BGT (on youtube, or elsewhere) until suddenly everybody everywhere started raving about Susan Boyle – then I watched her video, loved it, AND loved the concept of the BGT show – and now I follow the latest youtube BGT video releases regularly. And I’m sure I am one of very many.

This is not to say that Hollie isn’t an amazing talent in her own right – she certainly is, and I hope she goes on to a great career and life. I just wanted to respond to the idea that Hollie’s success should be seen as made “more difficult” by her following in Susan’s footsteps, because I am rather convinced that this is not the case.