Successful Surgery and Recovery
Fellow America’s Got Talent judge Howie Mandel has confirmed that Simon Cowell is on the road to recovery following a successful back operation. In an interview with E! News published Friday, September 4, 2026, Mandel shared that the procedure, which took place earlier that week, went off without any complications.
“As I talk to you, he is just hours out of surgery. I heard that it was a success. Everything’s OK,” Mandel, 70, stated. While the specific nature of the procedure has not been fully detailed, reports indicate it was a routine, non-emergency operation related to his back that could not be postponed.
This report draws on information published by usmagazine.com and eonline.com.
Context of the Absence
The need for the surgery was first announced on the NBC series by host Terry Crews during an August episode. Crews emphasized that while the procedure was not an emergency, it was medically necessary and required Cowell to step away from his judging duties temporarily. This development arrives at a critical juncture for the show, as the season 21 finale approaches and contestants vie for the $1 million grand prize.
Cowell, 66, has a history of back-related health concerns, most notably a significant accident in 2020 at his Malibu home involving an e-bike, which resulted in multiple fractures. It remains unclear if the recent surgery is directly linked to the lingering effects of that 2020 incident.
Shifting Judges Panel
In the wake of Cowell’s temporary departure, the show has utilized guest judges to maintain the panel’s continuity. Saturday Night Live star Kenan Thompson stepped in to fill the seat for the most recent round of live shows. Looking ahead to the next stage of the competition, Mandel confirmed that former judge Heidi Klum will return to the panel on Tuesday, September 8, to continue critiquing the remaining acts.
Mandel expressed optimism regarding Cowell’s return, stating he expects his colleague to be back at the desk before the season finale. “I’m hoping that Simon makes his way back and has a speedy, quick recovery,” Mandel added. The current quarterfinal stage features intense competition, with Mandel noting that the field is particularly strong this year: “I’ve never seen this close a race.”