The rumors swirling around Simon Cowell making big cast changes on America’s Got Talent for season 14 were NEARLY all true. He didn’t ditch the entire panel. Howie Mandel will be sticking around. But it’s time to say goodbye to Mel. B. and Heidi Klum who have been AGT judges since season 8 in 2013. Howie Mandel has sat on the panel since 2010. And Simon Cowell took Howard Stern’s place as judge in 2016.
Taking Mel and Heidi’s place on the panel will be “award-winning actress, author and producer” Gabrielle Union and actress, dancer, singer, choreographer and former Dancing with the Stars pro/judge Julianne Hough.
Also true: Tyra Banks will no longer be hosting the show. Unsurprisingly, Brooklyn Nine-Nine’s Terry Crews, who has been doing an admirable job as host on America’s Got Talent: Champions will be taking over the job.
“One of the many secrets to the success and longevity of America’s Got Talent is its fearless drive to reinvent itself,” said Meredith Ahr, President, Alternative and Reality Group, NBC Entertainment. “The next evolution of the format brings in fresh expert eyes to join Simon and Howie on the panel. Gabrielle and Julianne are two of the most aspirational women in the business, on top of being electric entertainers with talent across disciplines. I am excited to see how their knowledge, compassion and sheer joy enhance the experience for acts and viewers alike.”
Ahr added, “As their partner in crime, host Terry Crews will continue to light up the stage with his quick wit and unending charm.”
“Our millions of longtime viewers have already embraced Terry as the host of AGT: The Champions, and we are excited to welcome Gabrielle and Julianne to the ‘AGT’ family,” said Trish Kinane, President of Entertainment Programming, Fremantle North America. “They are ready to bring a new level of expertise, energy, entertainment and fun to our judging panel.”
