Simon Cowell is stepping away from his role on NBC’s America’s Got Talent for a few weeks to undergo a routine back surgery, according to a report first published by TMZ and confirmed by The Independent. The 66-year-old music mogul, who serves as a judge on the reality competition alongside Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Sofía Vergara, is expected to be temporarily replaced by guest judges during his absence, though network officials have not yet announced who will fill the seat.
Back Surgery Sidelines Cowell During AGT Live Shows
The temporary departure comes during a crucial phase of America’s Got Talent Season 21. Hosted by Terry Crews, the show is currently running its live performance episodes. The quarterfinals began August 18 and run through September 8, leading directly into the semifinals scheduled for September 15 and 16, with the final competition and finale slated for September 22 and 23.
It remains unclear exactly when Cowell will return to the judging panel. The Independent has reached out to Cowell for further comment regarding the procedure and timeline.
Did you know? Season 21 marks Simon Cowell’s eleventh season as an on-screen judge for America’s Got Talent, though he has shaped the hit series as an executive producer since its creation in 2006.
History of Back Injuries and E-Bike Accidents
Cowell’s upcoming procedure follows a series of significant back surgeries and health scares in recent years. In 2020, he broke his back in a severe electric bike accident that required a grueling six-hour surgery. The injuries were severe enough to force him to miss that year’s season of Britain’s Got Talent, where previous winner Ashley Banjo temporarily replaced him.
Reflecting on the ordeal in a 2022 interview with OK! magazine, Cowell admitted he was “lucky to survive” and that the situation “was a lot worse than people thought.” He shared that he suffered long-term nerve damage, noting that the pandemic lockdown ultimately provided the necessary healing time because he wasn’t actively working on a television production.
In 2022, the television personality suffered another e-bike crash, resulting in a broken arm, a badly bruised cheek, and a possible concussion. Unlike his first major accident, those injuries required only a brief hospital stay, and he was released on the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Simon Cowell leaving America’s Got Talent?
According to reports, Cowell is stepping away for a few weeks to undergo a routine back surgery following previous back injuries.
Who is replacing Simon Cowell on AGT?
Guest judges will fill in for Cowell during his absence, according to The Independent, though NBC has not yet announced specific names.
When does America’s Got Talent Season 21 end?
The quarterfinals run through September 8, followed by the semifinals on September 15 and 16, with the grand finale airing on September 22 and 23.
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