As the contest advances, all local hopes are on golden buzzer act Scarlet Rose.

The Ireland’s Got Talent live semi-finals kick off this week on TV3, and while many familiar faces impressed in the auditions, it’s down to sensational Donegal farmer Martin McGuinness to bring the trophy home.

The TV3 talent contest will have three semi-final shows before the grand final on Saturday 24th March, where one ultimate act will win a cash prize of €50,000 and a chance to star in their own TV show.

Donegal performers were featured regularly on this series. Dance duo Static Movement (Eric Roberts and Vinny McLaughlin) impressed with an electric routine, Carndonagh contortionist Lia-Della Friel stunned with her flexibility and Letterkenny’s Andy McGranahan cracked some stellar jokes in a comedy act.

Lia Della Friel. Image: TV3 Ireland’s Got Talent

Ardara farmer and drag queen Martin Mc Guinness’ appearance was one of the most talked about moments of Ireland’s Got Talent. The confident 51-year-old singer was put through to the semi-finals by accident when judge Jason Byrne hilariously hit the Golden Buzzer with his foot, giving Martin a fast-pass to the next round.

Now, Martin, aka Scarlet Rose, has the chance to prove his talents again. It is believed that Martin will be in the Wednesday semi-final line-up, airing on TV3 from 8pm.

Martin’s time on the show got off to a rocky start, but could it be fate that Jason Byrne’s blooper got him a pass to the semi-finals?

The first two Ireland’s Got Talent semi-finals will be held on March 19th and 21st on TV3 from 8.00 pm. Thursday’s show airs at 8.30 pm. The grand final will take place on Saturday, March 24 at 7.30 pm on TV3.