America’s Got Talent announces 20th season with major changes to judges table
NBC will premiere the landmark 20th season of the hit competition series America’s Got Talent on Tuesday, May 27 (8-10 P.M. ET/PT). The upcoming season brings a notable change at the judges’ table: long-time judge Heidi Klum will not return, and former Spice Girl and past AGT judge Mel B will rejoin the panel.
Mel B—who previously served on AGT during Seasons 8 through 13 and appeared on AGT: Fantasy League—joins a familiar lineup that includes executive producer and judge Simon Cowell, comedian and judge Howie Mandel, and actress and judge Sofia Vergara. Terry Crews returns as host, bringing his energetic presence back to the stage.
Simon Cowell commented on the milestone season: “It is absolutely brilliant to be able to announce this year as our 20th season. Over the years, we have seen some amazing acts and met some truly incredible people. It’s true that two or three minutes can change your life. I want to thank every contestant, all the fans who have supported the show every year and to NBC for believing in this show. And of course, the amazing team, past and present, who make the show so special. Now as always, I am really excited to meet the contestants this year.”
Auditions for Season 20 are currently underway. Interested performers can submit audition videos online or register for a live or in-person audition with casting producers through the official AGT audition portal. The show is holding several audition events, including an audition Comedy Showcase hosted by judge Howie Mandel on Thursday, Feb. 6 at the Ice House in Pasadena, California. Contortionist and AGT finalist Sofie Dossi will host virtual auditions on Tuesday, Feb. 25, and an in-person open call will take place on Monday, March 10 at the Pasadena Civic Center.
AGT garners more than a billion global viewers across platforms
The Got Talent format has become one of the most successful television franchises worldwide. Since its U.S. debut in 2006, the format has attracted more than a billion global viewers and has aired in 194 territories. The franchise holds the Guinness World Records title for the Most Successful Reality Television Format, with more than 70 local versions produced across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas.
Beyond broadcast ratings, the brand has grown significantly on digital platforms. Across social channels, America’s Got Talent has accumulated more than 26 billion video views and over 1 billion engagements, including likes, comments and shares. The franchise has also expanded through global brand extensions such as Champions, All-Stars and Fantasy League, which have broadened the series’ reach and given standout acts additional platforms to perform.
Last September, middle school janitor and singer Richard Goodall was crowned the winner of America’s Got Talent, a reminder of how the show can spotlight undiscovered talent and change lives. Over 19 seasons, many winners and finalists have gone on to notable opportunities, collaborating with established superstars. Examples include dance troupe The Mayyas performing with Beyoncé, Mzansi Youth Choir sharing a stage with Coldplay, and musical act Sainted appearing with Andra Day.
Several AGT alumni have also built long-term careers on the Las Vegas Strip, securing residencies and headline shows. Notable performers who have established successful Las Vegas runs include ventriloquist Terry Fator, comedy act Piff the Magic Dragon, illusionist Shin Lim, magician Mat Franco, comedian Vicki Barbolak, and physical comedy artist Tape Face. These success stories highlight how AGT can serve as a launching pad for sustained careers in entertainment.
Looking ahead, the live show portion of Season 20 will begin at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on Tuesday, Aug. 19 (8-10 p.m. ET/PT) on NBC, with results episodes airing Wednesday nights (8-9 p.m. ET/PT). With the return of familiar faces and the addition of Mel B to the judges’ panel, the anniversary season promises a mix of fresh talent, memorable performances and the heartwarming moments fans have come to expect from the series.