Kenan Thompson Takes Simon Cowell’s Seat on AGT — Here’s Why

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Kenan Thompson Takes Simon Cowell’s Seat on AGT — Here’s Why

News (2 / 1) 28.08.2026 23:04 / Torben


History revisited

This isn't Thompson’s first time filling in — he guest-judged in August 2020 after Cowell broke his back in an electric-bike accident and underwent a lengthy surgery including spinal fusions and a metal rod. Cowell later discussed recovery, lifestyle changes and lingering nerve damage.

What’s at stake

Quarterfinals 3 airs Sept. 1 with 11 acts competing and a Golden Buzzer sending one act straight to the finals; results air Sept. 2. AGT airs Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and streams on Peacock. Thompson has been an SNL cast member since 2003, the show’s longest-tenured performer.