Mel B is set to return as a judge on “America’s Got Talent” for its 20th season, replacing Heidi Klum who is departing the series. Mel B previously served as a judge on the show from 2013 to 2018. She will join fellow judges Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara, as well as host Terry Crews.
The new season is scheduled to premiere on May 27, with live shows beginning in August. Klum’s departure comes after she committed to the upcoming 21st season of “Project Runway,” which will air on Freeform and stream on Disney+ and Hulu. Klum had been a judge on “AGT” for 11 of the past 12 seasons.
Simon Cowell, who also serves as the show’s executive producer, expressed his excitement for the milestone 20th season.
Mel B returns to AGT
“Over the years, we have seen some amazing acts and met some truly incredible people,” Cowell said in a statement.
“It’s true that two or three minutes can change your life.”
Auditions for the new season are currently underway, with an open call set for March 10 at the Pasadena Civic Center in California. Howie Mandel will also be hosting an audition comedy showcase on February 6 at the Ice House in Pasadena. “America’s Got Talent” has aired in 194 territories worldwide since its 2006 premiere, amassing more than a billion viewers.
The “Got Talent” franchise holds the Guinness World Records title as the most successful reality television format, with over 70 local versions produced across the globe. Last season, middle school janitor Richard Goodall became the show’s winner after earning Klum’s Golden Buzzer for his rendition of “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey. “America’s Got Talent” is produced by Fremantle and Cowell’s Syco Entertainment, with Cowell and Sam Donnelly serving as executive producers.