'America's Got Talent' sets temporary replacement for Simon Cowell
USA Today • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Kenan Thompson, a "Saturday Night Live" star, will guest judge on "America's Got Talent" starting Sept. 1, filling in for Simon Cowell during his recovery from routine back surgery.
- Cowell will be absent for several weeks from the live shows due to the surgery, which host Terry Crews described as necessary but not an emergency.
- Thompson previously substituted for Cowell in 2020 after Cowell broke his back in an e-bike accident and underwent extensive surgery.
- "America's Got Talent" is currently in its 21st season, with judges Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, Mel B, and host Terry Crews; the season finale is set for Sept. 23.
- Cowell has shared that his previous back injury was severe, involving long-term nerve damage, and he is now being cautious during his recovery.
