Simon Cowell Surgery Update: Howie Mandel and Terry Crews React

The *America's Got Talent* family is sending major support toward executive producer and head judge Simon Cowell as he recovers from a recent medical procedure. Following a live semifinal broadcast, co-stars Howie Mandel and Terry Crews opened up about navigating the high-stakes production without the veteran TV mogul present at the judges' desk. Cowell temporarily stepped away from his duties on the hit NBC talent competition to undergo surgery. While specific details regarding the exact nature of the operation remain undisclosed, his fellow castmates made it clear that his absence is heavily felt on set as the current season approaches its final stretch. ## Is Simon Cowell returning to AGT this season? Mandel praised the 66-year-old entertainment tycoon for prioritizing his health and getting the care he needs right now. Speaking after the semifinalists took the stage, the long-time panelist emphasized just how pivotal Cowell is to the entire franchise. Mandel shared that running the competition without him feels like sailing a ship without a sail, expressing how much happier he will be when his friend returns to the seat directly to his left. Host Terry Crews echoed those emotional sentiments while speaking at the Hotel Dena Pasadena. The 58-year-old host revealed that the entire team is holding out hope that Cowell might manage a surprise appearance before the grand finale. With just one week left in the season, Crews admitted there is still a small chance the head judge could return to the stage, though the primary focus remains entirely on his long-term recovery. ## Who is replacing Simon Cowell on AGT? To keep the judging panel fully staffed during Cowell's physical absence, the NBC show has enlisted some big-name star power. Supermodel Heidi Klum and *Saturday Night Live* comedy favorite Kenan Thompson have both stepped in as temporary guest judges during recent broadcasts to assist in evaluating the remaining talent. Crews previously broke the news of Cowell's medical hiatus directly to viewers during a live broadcast, reassuring fans that the TV judge was taking necessary time off. As the countdown to the finale continues, the entire production team remains united in wishing their leader a swift return to health.