India, Aug. 30 -- Simon Cowell is stepping away from "America's Got Talent" for a routine back surgery, six years after he nearly lost his ability to walk in a serious bike accident.

Kenan Thompson will fill in as a guest judge on the show while Cowell recovers.

In August 2026, Cowell announced he would step away from AGT season 21 to undergo another back surgery. A rep for Cowell told Entertainment Weekly, "Obviously, medical matters are private, but it's routine, and he will be back in a few weeks."

Cowell's chair remained empty during the August 25 live show, with Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and Mel B judging as a trio. No exact return date has been announced. His latest surgery comes six years after a serious bike accident left hi...