The official panel of judges for America’s Got Talent (AGT) season 20 has been officially revealed, and it brings both familiar faces and an exciting return. The new season is set to premiere on Tuesday, May 27, and fans are eager to see what this milestone season will bring.
The main judges will include Howie Mandel, Simon Cowell, and Sofía Vergara. These three have been regulars on the show in recent seasons, and their return is sure to bring the usual energy and expertise to the panel. Terry Crews will once again serve as the host, continuing his role as the show’s energetic and charismatic leader.
However, this season will mark a significant change. Long-time judge Heidi Klum will not be returning for the 20th season of AGT. This news has surprised many fans who have grown to love her presence on the show over the years.
With Klum’s absence, the door has been opened for a new, yet familiar, face to join the judging panel. After a long wait, British singer-songwriter Mel B will be making her return to the show after an absence of several years.
Mel B’s Return to AGT
Mel B, best known as a member of the Spice Girls, first joined America’s Got Talent as a judge in 2013. She quickly became a fan favorite, known for her sharp wit and strong opinions. She remained on the show for six seasons, making a lasting impact on viewers.
Mel B left the show after her sixth season, but that wasn’t the last time fans saw her on AGT. Although she didn’t return to the main series, Mel B participated in two spinoff seasons: America’s Got Talent: The Champions in 2019 and AGT: Fantasy League in 2024.
Throughout her time on AGT, one of Mel B’s most iconic moments came when she pressed the Golden Buzzer for Darci Lynne Farmer, a talented ventriloquist and singer. Farmer went on to win the competition in 2017, and Mel B’s support played a major role in her success.
Now, with the announcement that she will be replacing Heidi Klum for season 20, Mel B is expected to bring her unique energy and connection with the audience back to the panel. This season will mark the first time that Mel B and Sofía Vergara will judge together, and it will also be the first time Mel B will be without Klum on the panel.
Why Is Heidi Klum Leaving AGT?
Heidi Klum’s departure from AGT season 20 has raised many questions among fans. Earlier this year, rumors began to circulate about her status with the show when it was announced she would return to Project Runway for its 21st season.
The concern among fans grew as it became clear that Project Runway and America’s Got Talent have similar filming schedules, making it difficult for Klum to appear on both shows. Klum has been a judge on AGT for 11 seasons, and her fans are sad to see her go.
However, Mel B’s return has been widely welcomed, as she has a strong relationship with the audience and a proven track record of bringing excitement to the show.
The upcoming season of Project Runway will air on Freeform and will also be available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu. Fans of both shows are hoping Klum will still be able to make a mark on Project Runway while allowing Mel B to shine on AGT.
What’s Ahead for AGT Season 20?
As auditions for America’s Got Talent season 20 are underway, the excitement continues to build. The live shows are set to begin on Tuesday, August 19, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
AGT has remained one of the most-watched shows of the summer for years, and with Mel B returning for her seventh season, the ratings are expected to remain strong. Fans are eager to see if there will be other surprises in store for the landmark 20th season of the show or if Mel B’s return will be the biggest twist of all.
Whether it’s new talent, surprise performances, or unexpected judging moments, America’s Got Talent is sure to deliver another thrilling season. Fans can’t wait to see how the 20th season unfolds with a new chapter on the judging panel.
