Simon Cowell is stepping away from "America's Got Talent" for several weeks to undergo back surgery, his representative confirmed on August 24, right in the middle of Season 21's live quarterfinal rounds.
What's happening
Cowell, 66, was present when the live quarterfinals began on August 18 but will miss the remaining quarterfinal episodes airing this week. A spokesperson told Entertainment Weekly the procedure is "routine and he will be back in a few weeks," with sources close to the situation telling TMZ there's no indication of a new major health crisis. The surgery is tied to lingering issues from a serious 2020 electric-bike accident that required extensive back surgery at the time.
Who's on the panel while he's out
Cowell's fellow judges, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara and Mel B, will handle the live shows during his absence. As of publication, it remained unclear whether a guest judge would fill his seat or exactly when he'd return. Season 21's quarterfinals are airing from August 18 through September 8, with the show's Top 44 acts competing for a spot in the semifinals.
