Simon Cowell had back surgery. He will miss live episodes of America's Got Talent for a few weeks while he heals following the routine procedure. Reports appeared on Monday, August 24, 2026. USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, and Yahoo News Canada all reported the details. He is stepping aside. The time off is limited to live broadcasts.
TMZ, TV Insider, and talentrecap.com also reported on his health update. Cowell needs rest. He takes a period of a few weeks off to heal up. Recovery is expected to take several weeks.