“America’s Got Talent” is preparing to return this summer for season 21, bringing another round of standout performers to the NBC stage as contestants compete for the $1 million prize and America’s vote.
Judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Sofia Vergara are expected back at the table, with Terry Crews returning as host. The competition series recently wrapped its milestone 20th season and is already welcoming new talent for its next chapter.
On January 21, Vergara reminded fans that auditions are officially open.
“Auditions are OPEN!!! 🥳✨ Come show us what you got!!! 💃🏻🎤 Sign up now at AGTauditions.com ❤️,” Vergara wrote on Instagram alongside a photo from the show.
‘America’s Got Talent’ Auditions Open With Virtual Options for Season 21
Mandel also shared news for aspiring acts in a December 8 Instagram post, announcing virtual auditions for season 21.
“#AGT really is the home for EVERY kind of talent. Got a talent that’s uniquely yours? Bring it to the virtual auditions on January 10th,” Mandel wrote.
According to the official AGT audition website, performers can audition without traveling.
“No stage, no travel, no excuses. If you’ve got talent, sign up for a virtual audition!”
Applicants can submit a quick form, upload a video, or share a YouTube link showcasing their talent. Those under 18 must have a parent or guardian submit on their behalf. Fans can also sign up for audition alerts through AGTauditions.com to receive updates on future virtual and in-person open calls.
Season 20 premiered on May 27, making late May 2026 the likely start date for season 21.
AGT Season 21 Judges, Host, and What Fans Can Expect
Cowell returns for his 11th season as a judge while continuing his role as executive producer across the AGT franchise, including “America’s Got Talent: The Champions,” “America’s Got Talent: All-Stars,” and “America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League.”
Mandel enters his 17th season on the judging panel.
Vergara, best known for playing Gloria Pritchett-Delgado on “Modern Family” and starring as Griselda Blanco in “Griselda,” will sit at the judges’ table for the seventh time.
Mel B, who rejoined the panel in season 20 after previously hosting and judging earlier seasons, is also expected back.
Crews, who has hosted since season 14, previously joked that he would do the job for free, signaling his continued enthusiasm for the role.
Auditions and live shows are filmed at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in California. Tickets are free and will become available closer to filming through on-camera-audiences.com.
Episodes will air Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, with next-day streaming available on NBC.com, the NBC App, and Peacock. Voting opens once live shows begin and can be done on NBC.com or the AGT App.
