‘America’s Got Talent’ Faces Major Shake-Up as Simon Cowell Steps Away for Health Reasons

Many judges have pressed the “golden buzzer” and all-but-crushed contestants on America’s Got Talent (AGT).

NBC’s popular talent show, showcasing anyone from magicians dressed as dragons to even more obscure acts you couldn’t make up if you tried, is airing its 21st season.

Fans will notice a void at this year’s table — at least for a while — according to TMZ. The outlet is reporting Simon Cowell is slated for “routine back surgery” as the 66-year-old has been dealing with off-and-on back issues for quite some time, including a prior back operation after a bike accident in 2020.

Related: 2000s Comedy Star, Known for Signature Catchphrase, Rushed to Hospital for Serious Illness

The procedure will sideline the ever-so-blunt judge for a “couple of weeks,” so performers can either take advantage of the lack of notoriously harsh feedback or miss the occasional speechless reaction Cowell is known to give with a smirk.

Everyone has a soft spot, after all, especially now that Mr. Cowell is in his 60s and years removed from the American Idol days that made his deadpan delivery must-see TV — not just William Hung.

Cowell has been on AGT for 10 years now, joining the judges’ table in 2016, and is fully expected to return to the hit show once he’s well enough to reclaim his seat.

There’s no official timetable as of now, though TMZ does hint his seat will be filled temporarily. Former AGT judge Howard Stern likely won’t be answering calls, as he’s currently enjoying an extended summer vacation.

Related: Howard Stern Claims His Show Is ‘Better Than Ever,’ But Fans Aren’t So Sure Anymore 

With Cowell on the mend, that’s more airtime for AGT’s colorful cast of characters — Mel B, Howie Mandel and Sofía Vergara — with who knows what to expect if another celeb fills in for the show’s sharpest tongue.

Perhaps Heidi Klum could return? Though rumor has it, the iconic supermodel is demanding big bucks these days!