Simon Cowell to miss America’s Got Talent finale over health concerns

Simon Cowell will not be part of the America’s Got Talent Season 21 finale as he continues to recover from a medical procedure for his ongoing back problems. The veteran judge and creator of the NBC talent show had been away from the live episodes in recent weeks and was initially hoped to return before the season came to an end.However, Simon will now remain absent for both parts of the finale, which are scheduled to air on September 22 and September 23. His absence means viewers will see a different face occupying his usual spot on the judges’ panel as the remaining contestants compete for the Season 21 title.YouTuber, musician and boxer KSI has been chosen to join the panel for the finale. He will sit alongside Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara and Mel B during the final performances as well as the results episode.

KSI is not new to the Got Talent franchise. He previously appeared as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, giving him experience with the format and its high-pressure auditions.Simon stepped away from America’s Got Talent in August while dealing with his back-related health issues. Following his procedure, fellow judge Howie Mandel had shared an encouraging update, saying he had been told that the treatment had gone well and that Simon was doing okay.

Earlier, Howie had also expressed hope that Simon would recover in time to return for the moment when the new winner of the competition was announced.While Simon has been away, the show has continued with a series of guest judges filling in at different stages. Among those who have joined the panel are actor and comedian Kenan Thompson and former America’s Got Talent judge Heidi Klum.The Season 21 performance finale is scheduled for September 22 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, with the results episode following on September 23 at 9 p.m. ET.