Simon Cowell will be absent from "America's Got Talent" for several weeks starting this week as he undergoes a scheduled back surgery, his representative confirmed on Aug. 24.
"Obviously medical matters are private, but it's routine and he will be back in a few weeks," Cowell's rep told Entertainment Weekly. Sources close to the situation told TMZ the procedure is routine and there is no indication of a new major health crisis.
Cowell, 66, was present at the judges' table when Season 21's live quarterfinals began on Aug. 18, but he will miss the remaining quarterfinal episodes airing this week, with results revealed Wednesday. It has not yet been announced when he will return, or whether NBC will bring in a guest judge, as it has in the past, or continue with Howie Mandel, Mel B, and Sofía Vergara holding down the panel.
The upcoming procedure follows a well-documented history of back trouble for Cowell, stemming from a serious 2020 electric bike accident at his Malibu home that required roughly six hours of spinal fusion surgery.
This season's live shows have already carried a strong current of faith and community, from the CommUNITY ATL Choir's standing ovations to contestants crediting their journeys to prayer and perseverance.
As Cowell steps back to heal, many of the same fans who've watched those stories unfold this season are extending him the same well-wishes - and more than a few prayers - for a smooth recovery.
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