America’s Got Talent is one of the many shows that is preparing to restart production amid the ongoing global health crisis. Unfortunately, ahead of the hit reality show’s return this week, judge Simon Cowell broke his back after falling off his new electric bike while at home. The music producer and television personality would be taken to the hospital where it was determined that he would need surgery. Now, Cowell has offered an update on his condition, and we also have some clarity regarding his return to AGT.
Last night, Simon Cowell posted a brief message on Twitter in which he poked fun at himself for his bike incident and thanked fans for their support during the situation:
Some good advice...If you buy an electric trail bike, read the manual before you ride it for the first time.I have broken part of my back.Thank you to everyone for your kind messages.
Cowell’s surgical procedure lasted about five hours, according to People. A source tells the trade that the 60-year-old host is doing okay following surgery, during which he had fusions and a metal rod inserted into his back. The source also says that while the injuries to his back are bad, things actually could have been worse.
So of course, this still leaves the question of when Simon Cowell will return to America’s Got Talent. He was slated to film the show’s first live episode on Tuesday but, he’ll now miss the August 11th and 12th episodes, at least.
Despite his injuries, it would seem that Cowell is set on coming back sooner rather than later, which definitely sounds like the high-powered media mogul. It’s fair to assume that America’s Got Talent will have to make some special accommodations for him when he returns. This could include a specialized chair that allows for optimum comfort during his recovery.
America’s Got Talent has already to make other production changes for Season 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has included new measures like fewer judge cut episodes and filming special episodes to accommodate gaps.
One of the most unique changes that directly involves the judges is their new entrance. At this time, the show has shifted to an outdoor theater with a film stage that resembles a drive-in theater. With this, the four judges all pull up in separate cars before sitting down in socially distanced seats to watch contestants.
While America’s Got Talent is more than likely sad to be without Simon Cowell for its first couple of episodes, it’s good to see that he’s on currently on the mend and has managed to find some humor in his situation. Let’s wish him a speedy and safe recovery as he returns to doing what he does best.
America’s Got Talent airs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
