A familiar face is heading back to the “America’s Got Talent” judges’ table while Simon Cowell continues his recovery from surgery. Fashion icon Heidi Klum will return to the NBC competition as a guest judge for the Tuesday, September 8, live show, USA Today reported on Wednesday, September 2.
Heidi, 53, will temporarily take Simon’s seat alongside Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara and Mel B as Season 21 moves closer to its finale.
Why Is Heidi Klum Returning to ‘America’s Got Talent’?
Heidi’s ties to “AGT” run deep, so this feels less like a guest spot and more like coming home. She first joined the judging panel in Season 8 in 2013 and stayed through Season 13.
After a season away, she returned in 2020 and stuck around all the way through Season 19 in 2024, closing out that run on a high note.
NBCHeidi’s Golden Buzzer pick, singing janitor Richard Goodall, ultimately won the competition. Mel B later took over Heidi’s spot on the panel.
Why Is Simon Cowell Missing From ‘AGT’?
NBCSimon, 66, is expected to miss several live shows while recovering from back surgery. Host Terry Crews addressed his absence during the Tuesday, August 25, episode and stressed that the procedure was not an emergency.
NBC“He’s having an operation that cannot be postponed,” Terry said. “It’s not an emergency, but it can’t be put off. Simon, we are sending you our very best wishes for a speedy recovery, and we’re looking forward to seeing you back at the judges’ desk very soon.”
Who Else Has Replaced Simon Cowell?
Heidi will be the second celebrity to occupy Simon’s chair during his temporary absence. “Saturday Night Live” star Kenan Thompson stepped in as guest judge for the Tuesday, September 1, episode.
Kenan, 48, joined Howie, Sofía and Mel B as the remaining acts competed during the live rounds.
USA Today reported that “AGT” is handling the situation week by week when selecting additional guest judges, meaning the lineup could keep changing depending on Simon’s recovery.
When Will Heidi Klum Return to ‘AGT’?
Heidi’s Tuesday, September 8, comeback will arrive during an unusually packed night for “America’s Got Talent.” According to NBC, instead of its usual Tuesday and Wednesday broadcasts, the series will air a special three-hour live episode Tuesday because of the NFL season opener scheduled for Wednesday, September 9. The first two hours will feature live performances.
Viewer voting will remain open during that window before closing at 10:05 p.m. ET. Results will then be revealed during the final hour. “America’s Got Talent” kicked off Season 21 on Tuesday, June 2. The finale is scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, on NBC.
NBCFor longtime viewers, Heidi’s temporary return brings one of the show’s most recognizable judges back to the table while Simon focuses on his recovery.
The show has not announced a firm return date for Simon.
