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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Roisin O'Connor

Comedian Kenan Thompson to replace Simon Cowell on America’s Got Talent

Simon Cowell Kenan Thompson
  • Simon Cowell has temporarily stepped down from judging America’s Got Talent to undergo routine back surgery.
  • Emmy-nominated comedian Kenan Thompson will act as the first guest judge on the panel from Tuesday 1 September.
  • Thompson will join existing judges Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara, having previously filled in during Cowell's absence in 2020.
  • The surgical procedure follows a history of back injuries for Cowell, who previously broke his back in an electric bike crash in 2020.
  • NBC has confirmed that further guest judges will be announced to cover for Cowell during his recovery period.

IN FULL

Simon Cowell’s first replacement for America’s Got Talent announced

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