Simon Cowell Joins 'America's Got Talent' To Replace Howard Stern As Judge
The former 'American Idol' judge, who is actually the creator of the 'Got Talent' series that began in Britain, will take over Howard Stern's seat. Stern said in June that he wouldn't return after four summers on the talent competition. The gig will mark Cowell's return to American television following his heavily hyped but doomed 'X-Factor'. “I am really thrilled to be joining America's Got Talent next season," Cowell says in a statement. "What I love about this show is that it's open to absolutely anyone. America has some fantastic talent just waiting to be discovered, and I would like that talent to come to our show, including any dogs who can sing." NBC chairman Robert Greenblatt says he's "thrilled to have Cowell step in front of the camera and take his rightful place at the head of the judges' panel." 'America's Got Talent' is the most watched summer alternative series, averaging over 12 million viewers. Simon Cowell is joining the next season of NBC's 'America's Got Talent'.