America’s Got Talent returned for a new season in June. Viewers watched months of auditions until the live shows finally premiered on August 18. Howie Mandel already has his eyes on several frontrunners to take home the top prize. However, the judges will have to do without Simon Cowell for a while. Keep reading for all the details on his absence and who is replacing him.
Simon Cowell Injured, Needs Surgery
Simon Cowell’s chair was empty on August 25 for the live AGT quarterfinals. The judge – who created the franchise and also serves as executive producer – had to step back from the show amid health issues.
The former American Idol judge broke his back in 2020 after an incident at his Malibu, California, home while riding an electric bike. Simon Cowell underwent five hours of surgery that included spinal fusions and the placement of a metal rod in his back.
He recovered from the injury but had another electric bike accident in 2022 that broke his arm. He missed several days of filming Britain’s Got Talent in 2025 after falling down some steps.
Simon Cowell will miss several weeks of America’s Got Talent while undergoing “routine back surgery,” according to his rep.
America’s Got Talent Reveals His Replacement
Simon Cowell’s place at the judges’ table won’t be empty for long. A previous guest judge is returning to join Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara and Mel B. Saturday Night Live star Kenan Thompson steps in for Simon Cowell on Tuesday, September 1, the NBC show announced on Instagram.
Kenan Thompson previously filled in for Simon Cowell after his back injury in 2020. Four judges are necessary as the contestants fight for a spot in the semifinals. The quarterfinals continue through September 1 and 8, then the semifinals begin on September 15.
Fans React To SNL Alum’s Return
Kenan Thompson has been on Saturday Night Live for 23 seasons. He holds the record for the longest-running cast member. Season 52 of the comedy show premieres on Saturday, September 26.
AGT viewers took to the comments on the Instagram post to welcome Kenan Thompson back. Several used the opportunity to beg the show to bring him on permanently to replace Mel B.
- “Can he replace Mel b”
- “This will be great!!! Keep him when Simon comes back. Goodbye Mel B”
- “I’m looking forward to it, I just hope he hits the red buzzer at least once”
- “It’s 2020 all over again… at least he’ll have an in-person audience this time around!”
- “No no no, we want Simon”
The Instagram post only lists his guest appearance on Tuesday, September 1. Fans were left wondering if he’s filling in the whole time Simon Cowell is recovering from surgery or if the show is doing rotating guest hosts. One fan suggested bringing on Kelly Clarkson for a guest stint. Stay tuned for more details on how long Simon Cowell will be gone.
Jennifer Havener grew up in a small town in Upstate New York. She earned her B.A in Writing & Literature from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. She always knew watching reality TV shows and soap operas, particularly ‘Days of Our Lives’, would come in handy someday. When she’s not writing, she’s playing with her dogs, Lola and Ruger