America’s Got Talent is officially back for its landmark 21st season, and fans are thrilled to see the full judging panel return. The AGT judges 2026 lineup features four powerhouse personalities who bring decades of entertainment experience to the table. Season 21 premiered on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 8/7c on NBC — and it’s already shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons yet.
Who Are the AGT Judges in 2026?
For America’s Got Talent Season 21, the judging panel remains unchanged from the previous season, bringing back four familiar faces who have become central to the show’s success. The AGT judges 2026 lineup includes Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B.
Simon Cowell continues to serve as the show’s lead judge and executive producer, known for his industry expertise and honest critiques. Howie Mandel returns as the longest-serving judge on the panel, offering humor and encouragement to contestants. Sofía Vergara brings energy, enthusiasm, and strong audience appeal, while Mel B adds her trademark honesty and passion after returning to the series in 2025.
Together, the four judges provide a balanced mix of entertainment experience, constructive feedback, and memorable on-screen chemistry as they search for the next America’s Got Talent champion in 2026.
Simon Cowell — Executive Producer & Judge (Season 11)
Simon Cowell is arguably the most recognized name in televised talent competitions globally. He returns for his 11th season as a judge on AGT, while also continuing his role as the show’s executive producer. Known for his razor-sharp critiques and high standards, Cowell has been instrumental in shaping the show’s identity since Season 11. His no-nonsense approach continues to be a fan favorite, and early Season 21 previews show him asking gobsmacked contestants, “How did you do that?” — a sign that this year’s talent is truly something special.
Sofia Vergara — Judge (Season 15)
Emmy-nominated actress Sofia Vergara is back for her seventh season as a judge. Best known for her iconic role as Gloria Pritchett-Delgado in the five-time Emmy-winning comedy Modern Family and her critically acclaimed portrayal of Griselda Blanco in Griselda, Vergara brings both glamour and genuine passion to the judging panel. She has already teased fans by hinting at “back-to-back” Golden Buzzers in Season 21 — a promise that has viewers buzzing with anticipation.
Howie Mandel — Judge (Season 5)
A true AGT veteran, Howie Mandel is back for a remarkable 17th season as a judge. The comedian and longtime television personality has been a fixture at the judges’ table longer than any of his current co-panelists, having first joined back in Season 5. Mandel has also appeared on multiple AGT spinoffs including AGT: The Champions, AGT: All-Stars, AGT: Extreme, and AGT: Fantasy League. In early Season 21 previews, Mandel can be seen enthusiastically telling one act, “You guys are amazing. You are the epitome of what AGT is all about.”
Mel B (Melanie Brown) — Judge (Season 8)
Spice Girls icon Mel B returns for her eighth season overall on AGT. After serving as a judge from Seasons 8 through 13 and one season of AGT: Fantasy League, Mel B made a highly anticipated return to the main panel in Season 20 — replacing longtime judge Heidi Klum, who had held the seat from Seasons 8–13 and 15–19. Her electric energy and passionate reactions have already made waves in Season 21 auditions, with Mel B reportedly exclaiming “What the!? Whoa!” during one jaw-dropping performance.
Who Is the Host of AGT Season 21?
Terry Crews returns as the host of America’s Got Talent Season 21, continuing a role he has held since joining the show in Season 14. With eight consecutive seasons as host, Crews has become one of the most recognizable and beloved faces of the AGT franchise. His enthusiasm, humor, and ability to connect with contestants have made him an essential part of the competition.
Throughout the season, Crews serves as more than just the presenter of the show. He spends time backstage with performers before and after their auditions, offering encouragement and helping them navigate the pressure of performing in front of millions of viewers. His positive energy often helps contestants feel more confident during some of the most important moments of their lives.
Crews has described himself as “the bodyguard of talent,” reflecting his commitment to supporting performers throughout their AGT journey. His presence continues to bring warmth, excitement, and authenticity to America’s Got Talent.
What’s New for AGT Judges in 2026? The Judges’ Callback Round
Season 21 introduces a major new twist to the competition — the Judges’ Callback Round. This brand-new format gives select acts a second chance to perform in front of the panel before judges finalize who advances to the Live Shows.
Here’s how it works:
- During the Audition round, each of the four judges and host Terry Crews receives two Golden Buzzers, for a total of 10 Golden Buzzers that automatically send acts to the Live Shows.
- After auditions conclude and the 10 Golden Buzzer acts are locked in, judges will deliberate and identify additional acts they want to see perform one more time.
- Those acts participate in the Judges’ Callback Round, where their second performance determines if they earn one of the remaining spots in the Live Shows.
Simon Cowell explained the reasoning behind the twist: “One question I get asked a lot is, ‘How do you decide who makes it through to the live shows?'” — and the Callbacks round is designed to give both judges and acts greater clarity and fairness.
AGT 2026 Season 21 Schedule
| Round | Dates | Network |
|---|---|---|
| Auditions | June 2 – August 11, 2026 (Tuesdays, 8/7c) | NBC |
| Live Shows Begin | August 18, 2026 (Tuesdays, 8/7c) | NBC |
| Results Shows | Wednesdays, 8/7c | NBC |
| Next-Day Streaming | Available from June 3 | Peacock |
The Live Shows are filmed in Pasadena, California, and the ultimate winner of Season 21 will walk away with the show’s iconic $1 million grand prize.
A Quick Look Back: Who Won AGT Season 20?
Before the excitement of Season 21 began, Jessica Sanchez captured America’s heart by winning the milestone 20th season of America’s Got Talent. The California-born singer completed one of the most remarkable comeback stories in the show’s history, returning nearly 20 years after first appearing on AGT as a 10-year-old contestant during the inaugural season. Her victory made her the first former AGT contestant to return and ultimately win the competition.
Throughout Season 20, Sanchez impressed both viewers and judges with her powerful vocals and emotional performances. Her journey was made even more inspiring by the fact that she competed while pregnant with her first child, demonstrating extraordinary determination and resilience. After receiving a Golden Buzzer from Sofía Vergara early in the competition, Sanchez continued to build momentum all the way to the finale, where she was crowned champion and awarded the show’s grand prize.
Her unforgettable win set a high standard for the contestants hoping to follow in her footsteps during AGT Season 21.
Why the AGT 2026 Judging Panel Works So Well
The combination of Simon Cowell’s industry authority, Sofia Vergara’s infectious enthusiasm, Howie Mandel’s veteran instincts, and Mel B’s raw passion creates a panel that covers every dimension of talent evaluation. Collectively, this group brings:
- Over 50 combined seasons of AGT judging experience
- Expertise spanning music, comedy, film, television, and live entertainment
- A balance of critical precision and emotional connection with performers
Early Season 21 previews confirm the talent this year is extraordinary — Mandel himself said the acts are “above and beyond,” and Cowell declared one group’s performance the best act of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who are the AGT judges in 2026? A: The four AGT judges for 2026 (Season 21) are Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B. All four are returning from Season 20.
Q: Is Heidi Klum returning to AGT in 2026? A: No. Heidi Klum is not returning to AGT for Season 21. Mel B replaced her on the panel in Season 20 and continues in that role for 2026.
Q: When does AGT Season 21 premiere in 2026? A: America’s Got Talent Season 21 premiered on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 8/7c on NBC. Episodes are also available next-day on Peacock.
Q: Who is the host of AGT 2026? A: Terry Crews is returning as the host of AGT Season 21, continuing in the role he has held since Season 14.
Q: What is the new Judges’ Callback Round on AGT 2026? A: The Judges’ Callback Round is a brand-new twist for Season 21 that gives select acts a second audition opportunity in front of the panel before judges decide who advances to the Live Shows.
Q: How many Golden Buzzers are there in AGT Season 21? A: There are 10 Golden Buzzers total in Season 21 — each of the four judges and host Terry Crews receives two Golden Buzzers apiece.
Q: Where are the AGT 2026 Live Shows filmed? A: The AGT Season 21 Live Shows are filmed in Pasadena, California.
Q: Who won AGT Season 20? A: Jessica Sanchez won AGT Season 20 in September 2025. She famously first auditioned on the show in Season 1 and returned twenty years later to win the entire competition.
Who is your favorite AGT judge in 2026 — and which act has impressed you the most so far this season? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and bookmark this page for the latest Season 21 updates!