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Where is Simon Cowell on AGT? The longtime “America’s Got Talent” judge is temporarily absent from the NBC competition series while he undergoes routine back surgery. Cowell is expected to miss the live shows for several weeks, according to information reported by USA TODAY.
Breaking Update: Where Is Simon Cowell on AGT?
The news was addressed during the Aug. 25 episode of “America’s Got Talent,” when host Terry Crews pointed out that Cowell’s chair at the judges’ table was empty. Crews explained that the 66-year-old television personality needed an operation that could not be postponed.
“It’s not an emergency, but it can’t be put off,” Crews said during the broadcast. He also sent Cowell best wishes for a speedy recovery and expressed hope that the music executive would return to the judges’ desk soon.
Cowell’s absence comes during the show’s 21st season, which returned to NBC on June 2. The series is now moving through its live competition phase, making the timing of the judge’s surgery especially noticeable for viewers.
Kenan Thompson Steps In as Temporary Guest Judge
NBC’s official “America’s Got Talent” Instagram account announced Aug. 28 that Kenan Thompson will serve as a guest judge on Tuesday, Sept. 1. The “Saturday Night Live” star is currently the only celebrity guest judge publicly announced for Cowell’s time away.
Thompson is a familiar face to “AGT” viewers. He previously filled in for Cowell during the show’s 15th season in 2020, when Cowell was recovering from a serious back injury caused by an electric bicycle accident.
That earlier injury required Cowell to undergo a six-hour surgery, including the placement of a metal rod in his back. His return to television followed an extended recovery period, and he later described the accident as more severe than many people realized.
A Familiar Replacement for the Judges’ Table
Thompson’s return gives the program a temporary replacement with prior experience judging the competition. Known for his long-running work on “Saturday Night Live,” he is expected to bring humor, television experience and a recognizable personality to the live episode.
A group of guest judges is expected to rotate through Cowell’s seat while he recovers. However, NBC has not announced the full list of replacements or provided a specific date for Cowell’s return.
- Simon Cowell is absent because of routine back surgery.
- He is expected to miss “America’s Got Talent” live shows for several weeks.
- Kenan Thompson will appear as a guest judge Sept. 1.
- Cowell previously missed live shows after his 2020 electric-bike accident.
- The season 21 finale is scheduled for Sept. 23 on NBC.
When Could Simon Cowell Return to AGT?
At this point, Cowell’s exact return date has not been confirmed. The show has described the surgery as necessary but not an emergency, suggesting that the judge’s absence is planned around his recovery rather than an unexpected crisis.
His eventual return will depend on how quickly he heals and whether his doctors clear him to resume filming. Cowell has previously spoken about taking his recovery carefully after his 2020 back surgery, including the long-term nerve damage he experienced from that accident.
Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara and Mel B continue to serve as judges alongside the rotating guest appearances. Terry Crews remains the host as the season moves toward its scheduled finale.
Why Cowell’s Absence Matters to America’s Got Talent
Cowell has been a central figure in the “Got Talent” franchise for years. His direct critiques, sharp reactions and role in shaping the show’s format have made him one of its most recognizable personalities.
Although guest judges can keep the live shows operating, Cowell’s absence changes the chemistry at the judges’ table. Contestants will face a different mix of feedback, while viewers will be watching for clues about when the original judge may return.
For now, fans can expect Kenan Thompson to take the spotlight on Sept. 1. The season 21 finale is scheduled to air on NBC Sept. 23, although Cowell’s participation in that episode has not been confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Simon Cowell missing from AGT?
Simon Cowell is temporarily missing from “America’s Got Talent” because he is undergoing routine back surgery. He is expected to be away from the live shows for several weeks.
Who is replacing Simon Cowell on AGT?
Kenan Thompson is the first announced guest judge replacing Cowell. Thompson will appear during the Sept. 1 live show and previously served as a guest judge in 2020.
Is Simon Cowell’s surgery an emergency?
No. Terry Crews said the procedure is not an emergency, but it cannot be postponed. Cowell is expected to focus on recovery before returning to the judges’ table.
When will Simon Cowell return to AGT?
NBC has not announced an exact return date. His comeback will depend on his recovery and medical clearance.
When does the AGT season 21 finale air?
The “America’s Got Talent” season 21 finale is scheduled to air on NBC on Sept. 23.
