gg2
Simon Cowell AGT absence
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Simon Cowell is absent from AGT live shows for routine back surgery. Kenan Thompson guest judges while Cowell recovers.
Background
Simon Cowell, a longtime judge on America's Got Talent, has been absent from the live shows since August 25, 2026, due to a routine back procedure related to ongoing issues from a 2020 e-bike accident. Host Terry Crews announced the absence, noting it was not an emergency but could not be postponed. Kenan Thompson, who previously filled in for Cowell in 2020, will serve as a guest judge starting September 1, 2026.
How it unfolded
- Aug 25, 2026Cowell misses the AGT Quarterfinals live show and results episode; Terry Crews explains he is undergoing a non-emergency operation.
- Aug 28, 2026AGT official account announces Kenan Thompson as guest judge for the third Quarterfinals episode.
- Sep 1, 2026Kenan Thompson joins the judging panel alongside Sofía Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Terry Crews stated Cowell's operation cannot be postponed but is not an emergency, and the show wishes him a speedy recovery.
- Analysts
- Cowell's representative confirmed the procedure is routine and he is expected to return within a few weeks, though no exact date was given.
Still unverified
It is unclear if other guest judges will appear beyond Kenan Thompson, and Cowell's exact return date has not been confirmed.