Simon Cowell had back surgery. He is set to miss live episodes of America's Got Talent for a few weeks while he heals following the routine procedure. Reports surfaced on Monday, August 24, 2026. USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, and Yahoo News Canada all published the news. He is stepping aside. The time off is limited to live broadcasts.
TMZ, TV Insider, and talentrecap.com also shared updates about his medical status. Cowell requires rest. He takes a few weeks off to rest. Recovery will take several weeks.