Simon Cowell underwent back surgery. He will skip live episodes of America's Got Talent for a few weeks while he recovers from the routine procedure. Reports surfaced on Monday, August 24, 2026. USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, and Yahoo News Canada all reported the details. He stays away. The time off is focused on live broadcasts.
TMZ, TV Insider, and talentrecap.com also reported on his medical status. Cowell requires rest. He is taking a few weeks off to heal up. Recovery will take several weeks.