Simon Cowell Taking Break from “America’s Got Talent” to Undergo Back Surgery

**Simon Cowell to Undergo Routine Back Surgery, Taking Temporary Leave from ‘America’s Got Talent’**

Simon Cowell, renowned judge and creator of the popular talent show *America’s Got Talent*, is set to take a break from filming as he prepares to undergo a routine back surgery. The 66-year-old television personality will miss several weeks of shooting the NBC series, a source confirmed to PEOPLE, with initial reports from TMZ bringing the news to light.

A spokesperson for Cowell assured that the surgery is standard and that he anticipates returning to his duties shortly. The specifics of who will temporarily fill his role on the show have yet to be disclosed, but it is expected that guest judges will step in during his absence to maintain the show’s momentum.

In addition to Cowell, the judging panel includes Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B, all of whom have continued their roles in the current 21st season of the series. Cowell has not only been a judge but also serves as an executive producer, contributing significantly to the show’s overall vision and direction.

Cowell’s health has been a topic of discussion over the past few years, particularly after he experienced a severe back injury in August 2020. Following an accident on an electric bike in Malibu, he suffered multiple fractures in his spine, resulting in a lengthy recovery process that led him to miss a portion of season 15 of the show. After undergoing a five-hour surgery to address the damage, he reported feeling significantly improved in subsequent months.

Reflecting on his recovery journey, Cowell shared that while the initial weeks were challenging, he ultimately adapted to the situation and engaged in extensive physical therapy. “I’ve got to be honest with you, it wasn’t that bad actually breaking your back,” he remarked in an interview in February 2021, adding that the experience taught him the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.

During his recovery, Cowell candidly admitted to feeling self-conscious about his appearance, often using humour to cope with the situation. He recounted a heartwarming moment with his son, Eric, following his return home. To explain his new, altered physical state, Cowell’s fiancée Lauren Silverman had a heartening conversation with their son, who affectionately compared his father to Iron Man.

In a 2022 interview with OK!, Cowell reflected on the severity of his injury and acknowledged the long-term impact it had on his health. He emphasised the importance of being transparent about his experiences, revealing that he faced unexpected complications, including nerve damage. Cowell has also previously sustained injuries from separate incidents, including another fall while biking in London.

Despite the setbacks, Cowell remains a vital figure on *America’s Got Talent*, which made its triumphant return with its 21st season premiere in June. Fans of the show can tune in to watch the remaining judging panel and host Terry Crews as they continue to showcase emerging talent on the popular programme.

*America’s Got Talent* is broadcast on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, and viewers are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on Cowell’s recovery and return to the show. As he takes the necessary time to heal, many will be wishing him a smooth and swift recovery so he can return to his rightful place on the judging panel.