Simon Cowell’s absence from America’s Got Talent will be temporary, and NBC has already announced the first celebrity stepping in while the longtime judge recovers from routine back surgery.

Comedian and actor Kenan Thompson will make his debut as a guest judge during the Sept. 1 episode, joining Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel and Sofia Vergara at the judges’ table, alongside host Terry Crews.

NBC shared the news on the show's official social media channels, describing Thompson as “a comedy legend” and inviting fans to tune in for his special appearance. The Emmy-nominated comedian is no stranger to the America’s Got Talent stage, having previously filled in during the live quarterfinals in 2020, when Cowell was also recovering from a serious back injury.

Best known for his record-breaking tenure on Saturday Night Live and the hit sitcom Kenan & Kel, Thompson continues to expand his career. Earlier this year, he also appeared in the latest installment of the Scary Movie franchise alongside Marlon Wayans, Anna Faris and Regina Hall.

Cowell’s latest surgery comes after years of back-related health issues stemming from a devastating electric bike accident in 2020 that left him with a broken back and required six hours of surgery. The injury forced him to miss that season of Britain’s Got Talent, where former champion Ashley Banjo temporarily took his place.

In recent interviews, Cowell has spoken candidly about the severity of the accident, revealing that his recovery was far more difficult than many realized. He explained that he suffered long-term nerve damage and credited the pandemic lockdown with giving him the time needed to focus on rehabilitation, regain strength in his legs and gradually return to work.

In 2022, Cowell was involved in another e-bike accident, suffering a broken arm, facial bruising and a possible concussion. Fortunately, his injuries were significantly less severe, and he was released from the hospital later that same day.

NBC has confirmed that additional guest judges will appear throughout Cowell’s recovery, although the network has not yet announced who will join the panel in future episodes.