Simon Cowell is set to miss the America’s Got Talent live finale, extending his month-long absence from the hit NBC talent show as fans await his return.
The America’s Got Talent judge will miss the two-night AGT live finale on September 22 and 23 while continuing his previously announced hiatus after undergoing back surgery.
NBC revealed September 22 that KSI will fill in alongside Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara and Mel B.
The British influencer, musician and former professional boxer, 33, has served as a Britain’s Got Talent judge since 2025.
Cowell stepped away from AGT in August for back surgery, with his rep describing it as a “routine” procedure.
His absence was first noted during the August 25 live show, when Mandel, Vergara and Mel B judged as a trio.
Kenan Thompson was later announced as the first guest judge to replace Cowell, joining the panel for the third quarterfinals.
The Saturday Night Live alum previously filled in for Cowell in August 2020 after his electric bike accident.
Heidi Klum also made her return to AGT amid Cowell’s absence.
Host Terry Crews announced during the September 2 episode that the former judge would be returning to the judges’ desk as another temporary guest judge.
“We will have another guest judge next week,” Crews said at the time.
The host added, “But check this out. It’s the return of AGT super judge Heidi Klum. Yes, Heidi will be back at the judges’ desk. How cool is that? Are you excited? I’m excited. The chair is ready and waiting for you, Heidi.”
Cowell returned to AGT in subsequent years and was back with Mandel, Vergara and Mel B when season 21 premiered in June.
America’s Got Talent finale
The finalists will perform for America’s vote on Tuesday, September 22, before the winner is revealed during the live results show on Wednesday, September 23.
The two-part live America’s Got Talent finale airs Tuesday, September 22, and Wednesday, September 23, at 9 p.m. ET on NBC and streams the next day on Peacock.
