Simon Cowell underwent back surgery. He will miss live episodes of America's Got Talent for a few weeks while he heals following the medical procedure. Reports came out on Monday, August 24, 2026. USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, and Yahoo News Canada all carried the story. He stays away. The absence is focused on live broadcasts.
TMZ, TV Insider, and talentrecap.com also reported on his medical status. Cowell requires rest. He takes a period of a few weeks off to heal up. Recovery will take several weeks.