The Shocking AGT Judge Shake-Up: Who’s In And Who’s Out For The 2025 Season 20 Panel?

The America's Got Talent (AGT) judging panel has always been a lightning rod for attention, but the lineup for the landmark Season 20 brought one of the most unexpected shake-ups in the show's recent history. As of this current date in December 2025, the panel is set, featuring a mix of veteran favorites and a triumphant, controversial return that has fans buzzing.

The biggest news is the return of a Spice Girl to the judging table, replacing a beloved supermodel. This article dives deep into the current judges, the dramatic change in the lineup for the 20th Anniversary season, their latest career updates, and the staggering net worth of the stars who decide the fate of America's best talent.

The Official AGT Season 20 (2025) Judging Panel and Biographies

The 20th season of America's Got Talent, which premiered on NBC in May 2025, saw a significant change that dominated the headlines: the exit of Heidi Klum and the surprising re-entry of Mel B. The panel is now a dynamic quartet of one media mogul, two comedians, and a global pop icon. Terry Crews returned as the host, guiding the show through the Auditions, Live Shows, and the Grand Finale.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

Simon Cowell: The Creator and Executive Producer

• Role: Judge (Season 11–Present)
• Date of Birth: October 7, 1959
• Career Highlights: Creator of The X Factor and the Got Talent franchise, Judge on Pop Idol and American Idol.
• Net Worth (2025): Estimated at a staggering $600 Million.
• Current Buzz: Cowell recently made headlines after canceling a taping of Britain's Got Talent to pay tribute to the late former One Direction member, Liam Payne. He is also actively holding auditions to form the "next hit boyband," proving his commitment to finding future megastars remains strong.

Howie Mandel: The Veteran Comedian

• Role: Judge (Season 5–Present)
• Date of Birth: November 29, 1955
• Career Highlights: Host of Deal or No Deal, voice actor for Bobby's World, stand-up comedian.
• Net Worth (2025): Estimated at $60 Million.
• Current Buzz: Mandel has been candid about his personal life, sharing a heartbreaking update on his grandson’s fight with leukemia. He also recently discussed his "best investment" outside of showbiz and humorously felt "vindicated" about his lifelong germaphobia in light of current global health discussions.

Sofía Vergara: The Modern Family Star

• Role: Judge (Season 15–Present)
• Date of Birth: July 10, 1972
• Career Highlights: Four-time Emmy-nominated actress for her role as Gloria Pritchett on Modern Family, model, and businesswoman.
• Net Worth (2025): Estimated at $180 Million.
• Current Buzz: Vergara recently opened up about her high-profile divorce from Joe Manganiello. She also missed a major awards show after being rushed to the emergency room due to an unexpected health issue, which she later revealed was a severe eye allergy.

Mel B (Melanie Brown): The Spice Girl Return

• Role: Judge (Season 8–13, Season 20–Present)
• Date of Birth: May 29, 1975
• Career Highlights: "Scary Spice" of the Spice Girls, Judge on The X Factor UK, actress, and television personality.
• Net Worth (2025): Estimated at $10 Million.
• Current Buzz: Mel B’s return for the 20th Anniversary season was a major talking point, especially after she revealed on the TODAY show that she was previously "laid off and fired" from the show. She expressed that her return felt like a "real homecoming" and has been a vibrant, often controversial, addition to the panel, bringing her unique Spice Girls energy.

The Shocking Judge Swap: Why Heidi Klum Left and Mel B Returned

The biggest story of America's Got Talent Season 20 was undoubtedly the shift in the judging panel. For the first time since Season 15, the lineup changed, with Mel B replacing Heidi Klum. This move was particularly surprising given Klum’s popularity and her long tenure on the show.

Heidi Klum’s departure was not due to any major scandal but was largely attributed to what sources called "expanding career commitments" and "scheduling conflicts." Klum is a powerhouse producer and model, and her decision is believed to be tied to her return to other major television projects, including a possible return to the high-fashion world of Project Runway. The German supermodel's busy schedule simply made it impossible to commit to the rigorous AGT filming schedule.

Mel B's return, however, was a triumphant and slightly dramatic one. The Spice Girls star had previously been a judge from Season 8 to Season 13. While she was welcomed back with open arms for the show's 20th Anniversary, she candidly told the press that her initial departure was not her choice, stating, "I got kind of laid off and fired." Her colorful, no-filter personality and deep expertise in the music industry made her the perfect choice for a "homecoming," injecting a new level of energy and unpredictability into the Live Shows.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

The Controversies and Key Moments of AGT Season 20

Beyond the judge swap, Season 20 of America's Got Talent delivered its usual mix of breathtaking talent and headline-grabbing moments. The season, which concluded in September 2025, continued to be a ratings juggernaut for NBC.

The Tom Sandoval Audition

One of the most talked-about moments of the season's Auditions was the controversial appearance of reality star Tom Sandoval. The former Vanderpump Rules cast member attempted a "redemption tour" on the AGT stage, which immediately drew a strong reaction from fans. Viewers and critics alike blasted the show for giving a platform to the controversial celebrity, creating a major social media firestorm and sparking debates about the show's integrity.

The Golden Buzzer Power Plays

The power of the Golden Buzzer—which sends an act straight to the Live Shows—was utilized with more intensity than ever. Simon Cowell, known for his ability to spot a global star, used his Golden Buzzer on a young, powerful singer who became an instant frontrunner. Meanwhile, Howie Mandel’s choice, a unique comedy act, sparked a lively debate among the judges and the audience, highlighting the diverse tastes of the panel. The Golden Buzzer decisions throughout the season were instrumental in shaping the final roster of competitors.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

The Judges' On-Screen Dynamics

The new dynamic between the judges was a major focus. Mel B’s direct and sometimes harsh critiques, a throwback to her earlier seasons, occasionally led to awkward tension and on-screen disagreements, particularly with the ever-cautious Howie Mandel. Sofía Vergara, meanwhile, continued to be the most emotionally expressive judge, often getting tearful during powerful performances. The chemistry between the four distinct personalities—the media mogul, the comedian, the actress, and the pop star—remains the core engine of the show's enduring success.