Thompson Returns to AGT as Guest Judge
Kenan Thompson, known for his long tenure on Saturday Night Live, will appear as a guest judge on America's Got Talent for the Quarterfinals Round 3 episode on September 1. He will take the seat of Simon Cowell, who is recovering from a back procedure. The show announced the news on Instagram, calling Thompson a comedy legend.[S1][S6]
Thompson has previously stepped in for Cowell. Back in 2020, following Cowell's severe e-bike accident, Thompson served as a guest judge for two episodes during the live quarterfinals of Season 15. He joined the panel of Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara, with Terry Crews hosting.[S1][S2]
Cowell's Absence Explained
Cowell missed the August 25 show, and host Terry Crews announced that Cowell was undergoing a non-emergency surgery that couldn't be delayed. The operation is considered routine and pertains to his back, resulting from the 2020 accident that caused a spinal injury and required a lengthy recovery.[S2][S3][S4]
Cowell's back issues have been ongoing since the accident, which he has spoken about publicly. In 2020, he told Extra that he nearly smashed his spine and was lucky to walk. The current surgery is seen as less serious, but it will keep him away from the show for several weeks.[S4][S6]
What to Expect Next
Thompson is set to appear on Tuesday, September 1, at 8/7c on NBC. The quarterfinals run through September 8, with semifinals and finals later in the month. Episodes can be streamed on Peacock the day after they air.[S2][S5]
