Howie Mandel Shares Simon Cowell Health Update Amid ‘America’s Got Talent’ Absence

Howie Mandel says Simon Cowell’s recent back procedure was successful and hopes the longtime judge will return before the Season 21 finale.

Simon Cowell Recovering After Back Procedure

Simon Cowell is taking several weeks away from America’s Got Talent while recovering from what was described as a routine procedure related to his back.

During an interview with E! News on Thursday, September 3, fellow AGT judge Howie Mandel provided an update on Cowell’s condition.

“As I talk to you, he is just hours out of surgery,” Mandel said. “I heard that it was a success, everything’s okay.”

Howie Mandel Plans to Visit Simon

Mandel explained that he had not yet contacted Cowell immediately after the procedure, joking that the judge might need some time before dealing with visitors.

“I haven’t called him yet,” Mandel said, adding that he would give Cowell “a day or two” to recover before visiting him and offering his best wishes.

The comedian also emphasized that he was relieved to hear the operation had gone smoothly.

Mandel Hopes Cowell Returns to AGT

With the America’s Got Talent Season 21 finale approaching, Mandel said he hopes Cowell will recover quickly enough to return to the judging panel before the winner is announced.

“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.”

Kenan Thompson and Heidi Klum Step In

While Cowell is away, Kenan Thompson temporarily joined the judges’ panel earlier this week.

Next, Heidi Klum is set to make her return to the show, continuing to fill the gap during Cowell’s recovery.

New episodes of America’s Got Talent air Tuesday and Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and stream the following day on Peacock.