Simon Cowell to miss the finale of ‘America’s Got Talent’, KSI steps in

Simon Cowell will miss the live finale of season 21 of ‘America’s Got Talent’, which will air on September 22 and 23, 2026. Still recovering from back surgery, the show’s creator will be replaced on the judging panel by KSI.

NBC announced on Tuesday that the British YouTuber, musician, and former boxer will join Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B. The ten finalists will perform on the first night before the winner is revealed on Wednesday.

Simon Cowell stepped away from the set in August to undergo what was described by his representative as a “routine” procedure. At that time, he informed Entertainment Weekly that the 66-year-old producer would be absent for a few weeks.

Several guest judges have filled his seat during this hiatus. Kenan Thompson participated in the third quarterfinal, and then Heidi Klum made a brief return to the judging table. KSI’s presence extends this replacement through to the season’s final episode.

This absence comes six years after the electric bike accident that fractured Simon Cowell’s back and required extensive surgery. NBC has not announced a new date for his return to the show.