Teen singers, body-horror act in jeopardy, as Simon Cowell misses “America’s Got Talent” episode amid medical treatment

Raechal ShewfeltWed, August 26, 2026 at 4:45 AM UTC

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‘America’s Got Talent’ judges Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofi­a VergaraCredit: Trae Patton/NBCKey Points -

Eleven more America’s Got Talent quarterfinalists competed on Monday’s live episode.

Judges Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara were there, but Simon Cowell was absent for health reasons.

Mel B hit her “X” on two performers, but Mandel hit his as she explained her reasoning.

The America’s Got Talentjudges’ table was noticeably bereft of Simon Cowell during Tuesday’s second installment of the quarterfinals.

Cowell, 66, is expected to miss several weeks’ of shows due to a surgical procedure on his back. The reality competition impresario has struggled with back issues following a serious biking accident in 2020.

“Obviously medical matters are private but it’s routine and he will be back in a few weeks,” Cowell’s rep told Entertainment Weekly on Monday.

Host Terry Crews announced to the audience early on what was happening.

“Now, you’ll notice that Simon Cowell is not here,” Crews said. “He’s having an operation that cannot be postponed. It’s not an emergency, but it can’t be put off. Simon, we are sending you our very best wishes for a speedy recovery, and we’re looking forward to seeing you back at the judges’ desk very soon.”

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His fellow judges Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara were present and offering their usual takes on who viewers should vote into the next round. Of the 11 that competed, only the top three vote-getters will move on in the competition.

Hawaiian brothers Nyjah Music, 16, and Zyah Rhythm, 17, heard some of the harshest reviews after their performance of All-4-One’s version of “I Swear.” Judge Mel B even hit her “X” on the act.

“To be honest, I actually think that I did you a favor,” Mel B said to boos from the crow. “I think you need a lot more time, you need a lot more experience. And at this point in the competition, this should be your best. I should be able to feel the hunger, the passion. It was just like you were taking a walk along Malibu Beach without a care in the world. I didn’t see it. Go away, keep your heads down, practice, and come back with more determination.”

Mandel thought the nerves were showing too much, and that they needed more time.

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Vergara greed and added some encouragement.

“I mean, I think you guys are adorable, and I think you’re very talented, but like they said, I think you guys need a little bit more getting ready,” the actress said. “I think you played it too safe tonight, and you’re nervous. But that makes you human. Doesn’t matter, it’s fine. I think you have to keep working and follow your dreams, because you guys are good.”

Former Spice Girl Mel B also gave an “X” to Brad & Tracy, the couple whose uncomfortable performance saw audience members cringe away from the stage, like when she hammers a nail into him or he swallows a sword.

Mandel, however, complimented the couple’s showmanship and love — sorta.

“This is...it is so bad, it is amazing,” Mandel summarized.

Vergara quipped, “To be honest, I cannot stop thinking about what your neighbors think about you two.”

Mel B delivered good news, too, awarding the night’s coveted Golden Buzzer, which sends the act that receives it straight through to the finals. The lucky — and talented — recipient was Nene Royal, the teenager who rocked out hard to “Black Hole Sun.”

Crews also briefly acknowledged the death of country music icon Dolly Parton, calling her an “original” who would never be forgotten. A card with her photo ended the episode.

Fans can vote on the night’s performances until Wednesday at 7 a.m. ET. The results from America’s Got Talent’s Tuesday episode will air Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.

on Entertainment Weekly

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