The buzzers are back—and so is Mel B. NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” is celebrating its milestone 20th season with a revamped format, a returning fan-favorite judge, and a renewed focus on the behind-the-scenes magic that makes the show a summer sensation. Premiering Tuesday, May 27, the new season promises to offer more than just jaw-dropping acts—it’s pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to audition for one of TV’s biggest talent competitions.
Simon Cowell Reveals ‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 20 Will Have a New Format
Executive producer and longtime judge Simon Cowell revealed a major format shake-up for the new season: fans will now get an unprecedented look behind the scenes. “This season is special—I reckon we’re showing about 40% more of the process and everything that goes on behind the scenes, which I find fascinating,” Cowell said in a statement to People. “This year, fans will get to see what it’s like to be a contestant: the highs, the nerves, and the emotions. Everything.”
Cowell emphasized that this change came from a shared passion among the team to highlight the emotional and personal journeys of the performers. “It felt right,” he added, “and I personally think this is the best first episode of “AGT” I’ve ever seen.”
The new season opens with the familiar faces of Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and host Terry Crews making their way through excited crowds, prepping for auditions, and interacting with hopeful contestants. But what sets it apart is the added emotional depth and process-driven storytelling woven into the episode from the start.
Spice Girl Mel B Reclaims Her Judge’s Seat
One of the most noticeable changes for longtime viewers is the return of Melanie “Mel B” Brown. The former Spice Girl—best known as “Scary Spice”—joins the judges’ panel once again, taking over for Heidi Klum, who exited the series after Season 19. Klum had been a judge for several years, appearing on Seasons 8–13 and returning for Seasons 15–19 following a brief hiatus.
Mel B originally joined “AGT” in season 8 following Sharon Osbourne’s departure and has remained part of the extended franchise with appearances on “America’s Got Talent: The Champions” and most recently “AGT: Fantasy League.” Her return was met with hugs and excitement from the cast, including Vergara and Mandel. Cowell welcomed her warmly, exclaiming, “She’s back!” as they embraced.
With Cowell, Mandel, Vergara, and now Mel B, the season 20 judging panel blends familiarity with a dose of fresh energy—and a bit of friendly chaos.
‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 20: Everything Else We Know
Crews returns as host, helping guide contestants through the emotional highs and lows of the competition. The $1 million prize and Las Vegas headliner spot remain the end goal for performers ranging from acrobats to singers to comedians.
The auditions will air weekly on Tuesdays throughout the summer, leading up to the live shows in August. Episodes will premiere on NBC at 8 p.m. ET/PT and be available the next day on Peacock for streaming.
Last season’s winner, Richard Goodall—a former school janitor turned powerhouse vocalist—proved that the AGT stage still changes lives. He triumphed over an international group of finalists, including acrobats, comedians, dancers, and even a dog act.
Now, with Mel B back and cameras rolling behind the scenes like never before, season 20 is poised to offer not just talent—but deeper storytelling, more emotion, and plenty of Golden Buzzers.
Tell us! Will you be tuning in to the “America’s Got Talent” season 20 premiere? Let us know in the comments below.
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America’s Got Talent Season 20 Brings a New Look and a Familiar Face