Kenan Thompson will return to America’s Got Talent as a guest judge for the third quarter-final episode on 1 September, replacing Simon Cowell while he undergoes back surgery. The appointment is notable because Thompson previously filled in for Cowell during the 2020 live quarter-finals, after Cowell’s serious e-bike accident.

Cowell, who also created and executive produces the programme, has taken time off for what was described as a routine procedure connected to spinal injuries from the August 2020 accident and its lengthy recovery. Thompson will join Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel and Sofia Vergara, having previously appeared for two episodes in 2020; Kelly Clarkson also substituted for Cowell that year.