Kenan Thompson Joins AGT as Guest Judge on September 1 While Simon Cowell Recovers

Porcha MaziqueSat, August 29, 2026 at 9:28 PM UTC

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Replacing Simon Cowell, even temporarily, isn’t an easy assignment. The good news for Kenan Thompson is that he doesn’t have to figure it out from scratch.

He stepped in for Cowell back in 2020, showing he could keep the show entertaining without trying to copy Simon’s no-nonsense personality. As he returns to the panel, fans already know what kind of energy he’ll bring.

When Does Kenan Thompson Guest Judge on ‘AGT’?

Thompson takes the fourth chair Tuesday, September 1 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, streaming next day on Peacock. It is the third night of Season 21’s live shows.

Who’s on the ‘America’s Got Talent’ Panel September 1

Panel and episode details as reported by NBC Insider.

Name

Role that night

Kenan Thompson

Guest judge, filling Simon Cowell’s seat

Howie Mandel

Judge

Sofía Vergara

Judge

Mel B

Judge

Terry Crews

Host

Simon Cowell

Absent, recovering from surgery

Eleven acts compete, and the guest judge is expected to have a Golden Buzzer in play.

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Why Is Simon Cowell Missing ‘America’s Got Talent’?

Cowell is having back surgery. Host Terry Crews told viewers, “it’s not an emergency, but it can’t be put off,” and a spokesperson called it routine with a return expected in weeks.

Has Kenan Thompson Judged ‘AGT’ Before?

Yes, in August 2020, covering two quarterfinals episodes after Cowell fractured his back in a bike accident. Reporting ties this surgery to that same injury, six years on.

Related: 5 ’90s TV Catchphrases: Funny, Nostalgic, and Live Rent-Free in Our Heads

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Aug 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”