AceShowbiz - Simon Cowell will be absent from America's Got Talent as he undergoes back surgery, and Kenan Thompson is set to step in as a guest judge for the upcoming Quarterfinals Round 3 episode on September 1. Thompson’s appearance comes as a temporary replacement while Cowell recovers from the procedure.

The back surgery is related to a serious spinal injury Cowell sustained in an e-bike accident in August 2020, which required extensive rehabilitation and previously kept him off the show’s 2020 season. Terry Crews, the show’s host, noted that the surgery was necessary and could not be postponed, though it is not considered an emergency. During Cowell’s absence this season, judges Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B have continued their roles without a guest judge until Thompson’s return to the panel.

Kenan Thompson, a Saturday Night Live veteran with six Emmy nominations, has guest judged on America's Got Talent before, including the 2020 live quarterfinals when he supported contestants by encouraging them to channel their nerves into strengths. The show officially announced Thompson’s return as guest judge on their Instagram, highlighting his familiarity with the competition and ability to fill Cowell’s seat.

Simon Cowell is best known as a judge on American Idol and for his role as a television producer and music executive. He has been a prominent figure on talent competition shows, including Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor. Cowell’s long tenure on America's Got Talent has made him a central personality on the show, although he has missed several episodes this season due to his ongoing medical recovery.

Thompson’s guest judge role ensures that the show maintains a strong judging panel during Cowell’s absence, giving fans a familiar face and voice on the panel. Cowell is expected to return to America's Got Talent as soon as he is able to after recovering from the surgery, keeping the door open for his comeback later in the season.