Kenan Thompson is stepping in as Simon Cowell’s temporary replacement on “America’s Got Talent” while the music mogul recovers from back surgery.
Thompson, 48, will join the judging panel for Tuesday’s Season 21 episode alongside Sofía Vergara, Howie Mandel and Mel B, NBC announced via Instagram on Saturday. The network shared a photo of the “Saturday Night Live” veteran with the caption, “A comedy legend is taking over the Judges’ table!” The post continued, “Kenan Thompson is joining AGT as a guest Judge! 🎉.”
Whether Thompson will remain for the five remaining episodes or share duties with other surprise judges has not been confirmed. The comedian’s history with the show dates back to 2020, when he previously filled in during Cowell’s extended absence.
Cowell, 66, missed the majority of Season 15 after a devastating electric bike accident in Malibu, California. He was riding in a courtyard with his longtime partner, Lauren Silverman, 49, and their now-12-year-old son, Eric, when he fell and landed directly on his back. The impact resulted in multiple breaks and what sources described at the time as “massive amounts of pain.”
An insider told reporters in 2020 that Cowell “landed right on his back, which broke in a number of places.” He was transported to a hospital and underwent a six-hour surgery, during which doctors placed a metal rod in his spine.
Years later, Cowell struck a surprisingly stoic tone when reflecting on the ordeal. In a 2021 interview, he said, “I’ve got to be honest with you, it wasn’t that bad actually breaking your back.”
“I mean it wasn’t great for 3 to 4 weeks but after that you get through it,” Cowell added.
Thompson’s comedy career spans decades. He joined the cast of “SNL” in 2003 and remains its longest-tenured performer. Earlier roles included the 1997 feature “Good Burger” as Dexter Reed and the Nickelodeon series “Kenan & Kel” in the late 1990s. His return to the “AGT” judges’ table marks his second time pinch-hitting for Cowell.
The current season of “America’s Got Talent” airs Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
“AGT” continues Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.