‘America’s Got Talent’ Moves Forward Without Simon Cowell Amid Health Issue

Long before singing competitions became a staple of television, Simon Cowell helped shape the genre into a global phenomenon. There from the beginning, most loved the record producer for his blunt opinion. Giving just a sample of how harsh the music business could be, the judge often left contestants shocked, confused, and even crying. Although his approach to criticism had changed over the years, he continued to offer feedback. But recently, it seemed that Cowell would step away from America’s Got Talent due to having to undergo back surgery.

Back in 2020, Cowell was enjoying a nice stroll on an electric bike. Although hoping to get some fresh air, the judge found himself in the hospital when he crashed. While breaking his back during the accident, doctors considered him lucky since it almost left him paralyzed. Already undergoing one surgery before, he will miss part of the upcoming season of America’s Got Talent for another surgery. 

According to reports, Cowell would miss “several weeks” of filming America’s Got Talent. Not removing him entirely, the producers have yet to announce the celebrity who would take over while Cowell recovered.  

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Who Will Replace Simon Cowell On ‘America’s Got Talent’

Looking back over the previous seasons, the producers have welcomed top names like Piers Morgan, Sharon Osbourne, Howard Stern, David Hasselhoff, and the current lineup of Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara. 

Calling on one of the former judges could bring that nostalgia factor that most fans loved. But at the same time, this could be an opportunity for producers to hint at a new era. At 66 years old, Cowell has spent over the last two decades in the world of singing competition.

With Cowell often considered the godfather of singing competition, his talents extended far beyond network television. Throughout his career in music, he discovered acts like Fifth Harmony and One Direction. 

Cowell might have softened his critiques over the years, but his influence on competition television remained undeniable. While his latest surgery might keep him away for only a few weeks, America’s Got Talent would have to carry on without its most recognizable judge.   

(Photo by Jesse Grant/Variety via Getty Images)