Image Source: USA Today
Simon Cowell AGT temporary replacement plans have taken another surprising turn, with Heidi Klum set to return to the “America’s Got Talent” judges’ table. USA TODAY exclusively reported Sept. 2 that Klum will fill Cowell’s seat as a guest judge during the show’s Sept. 8 episode.
The announcement comes as Cowell continues recovering from routine back surgery. The longtime “AGT” judge is expected to miss the live shows for several weeks while he recuperates. His absence has led NBC and the production team to bring in familiar television personalities on a week-by-week basis.
Simon Cowell AGT Temporary Replacement Revealed
Klum is a natural choice for the temporary role. The model, television host and entrepreneur has a long history with the NBC talent competition. She first joined the judging panel during Season 8 in 2013 and remained with the show through Season 13 in 2018.
After sitting out Season 14, Klum returned for Season 15 in 2020. She stayed on the panel through Season 19 in 2024, when she departed and was replaced by Mel B.
Her previous run ended on a high note. Klum’s Golden Buzzer act, singing janitor Richard Goodall, went on to win the 2024 competition. Her return therefore gives viewers a judge with established knowledge of the performers, the format and the pressure of the live rounds.
A Powerful Return for Heidi Klum
Klum, 53, will reunite with several familiar faces when she takes the chair. Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara and Mel B are also part of the judging lineup, while Terry Crews continues as host.
For fans, Klum’s comeback is more than a short-term scheduling decision. She has already developed a recognizable on-screen dynamic with the “AGT” team and contestants. Her enthusiasm, direct feedback and experience with Golden Buzzer moments could make her presence especially valuable as the competition moves toward its finale.
Why Simon Cowell Is Missing From AGT
Cowell’s absence was addressed on the Aug. 25 episode after viewers noticed that his chair was empty. Crews explained that Cowell was undergoing an operation that could not be postponed, while emphasizing that it was not an emergency.
“Simon, we are sending you our very best wishes for a speedy recovery, and we’re looking forward to seeing you back at the judges desk very soon,” Crews said during the broadcast.
The procedure has temporarily changed the judging panel, but the show has continued with its live production schedule. Saturday Night Live star Kenan Thompson became the first guest judge to replace Cowell, joining the program for the Sept. 1 episode.
USA TODAY reported that “America’s Got Talent” is taking the guest-judge process one week at a time. That approach allows the series to adjust its lineup depending on Cowell’s recovery and the demands of the live competition.
Explosive Three-Hour Live Episode Set for Sept. 8
Klum’s appearance is not the only major change coming to “AGT” next week. The series will air a special three-hour live broadcast on Tuesday, Sept. 8, instead of airing two separate episodes on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The scheduling change is connected to the NFL season opener, which is set to air Wednesday, Sept. 9. The special episode will include two hours of performances followed by a one-hour results show.
- Two hours of live performances will begin the broadcast.
- Audience voting will remain open during the performance portion.
- Voting is scheduled to close at 10:05 p.m. Eastern time, or 7:05 p.m. Pacific.
- The final hour will reveal which contestants advance.
The compressed schedule raises the stakes for performers and viewers alike. Contestants will have less time between performances and results, while fans will need to submit votes before the deadline to help determine who moves forward.
When Is the America’s Got Talent Finale?
“America’s Got Talent” returned for its 21st season on June 2. The Season 21 finale is scheduled to air on NBC Sept. 23, giving the remaining contestants only a short window to impress viewers and judges.
With Cowell temporarily away, guest judges are likely to remain part of the show’s live-round strategy. Klum’s return could become one of the season’s most talked-about moments, particularly because of her previous connection to Goodall’s winning performance.
For now, Cowell’s recovery remains the central reason behind the rotating guest lineup. Fans can expect Klum to occupy the judges’ chair on Sept. 8, while the competition continues toward its highly anticipated finale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Simon Cowell’s temporary replacement on AGT?
Heidi Klum will temporarily replace Simon Cowell as a guest judge on the Sept. 8 episode of “America’s Got Talent.”
Why is Simon Cowell missing from America’s Got Talent?
Cowell is recovering from routine back surgery. Terry Crews said the operation was not an emergency but could not be postponed.
When will Heidi Klum appear on AGT?
Heidi Klum is scheduled to appear during the special three-hour live episode airing Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Who replaced Simon Cowell before Heidi Klum?
“Saturday Night Live” star Kenan Thompson was the first guest judge to fill Cowell’s seat, appearing on the Sept. 1 episode.
When is the AGT Season 21 finale?
The “America’s Got Talent” Season 21 finale is scheduled to air on NBC Sept. 23.
