"America's Got Talent" fans searching for answers about Simon Cowell's absence from the judges' table got some good news this week, courtesy of co-judge Howie Mandel.
Cowell, 66, underwent a second back surgery this week to address ongoing issues stemming from his serious 2020 e-bike accident, which left him with multiple back fractures. The procedure forced him to miss the Season 21 live shows, sparking a wave of concerned fans wondering where he'd gone.
Speaking to E! News on Thursday, September 3, just hours after Cowell's operation, Mandel offered reassurance. "As I talk to you, he is just hours out of surgery," Mandel said. "I heard that it was a success, everything's okay."
Mandel admitted he hadn't spoken with Cowell directly yet, joking that his longtime colleague likely wasn't ready for visitors so soon after the procedure. Still, he said he's looking forward to checking in once Cowell has had time to recover - and is hopeful his fellow judge will return to the panel before the season concludes. "I'm hoping that Simon makes his way back and has a speedy, quick recovery," Mandel said. "That's what I'm looking forward to."
In Cowell's absence, "Saturday Night Live" veteran Kenan Thompson stepped in for the judges' table, and former AGT judge Heidi Klum is set to return for an upcoming live show. A representative for Cowell told Entertainment Weekly the procedure was routine and that he's expected back soon.
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