Kenan Thompson To Replace Simon Cowell As Guest Judge On ‘America’s Got Talent’

Comedian and Saturday Night Live star Kenan Thompson will temporarily take Simon Cowell’s place on America’s Got Talent as the music executive recovers from a routine back procedure.

The NBC talent competition announced Thompson’s guest appearance on Friday, August 28, saying the comedy star would join the judging panel for the third round of Season 21’s quarterfinals on Tuesday, September 1. 

Thompson, 48, will sit alongside Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara and Mel B. It is not yet clear whether he will return for additional episodes while Cowell is away. 

Cowell, 66, is temporarily stepping away from the show to undergo a routine procedure related to ongoing back problems. His representative said he is expected to return in a few weeks. 

The latest absence is linked to the back problems Cowell has experienced since a serious electric-bike accident in 2020. He suffered multiple fractures and underwent major surgery, which kept him away from much of America’s Got Talent that season. 

Thompson is familiar with the role. He previously filled in for Cowell during the 2020 season following the accident.

Best known for his long-running stint on Saturday Night Live, Thompson joined the programme in 2003 and has also starred in Kenan & Kel, Good Burger and its sequel.