America's Got Talent: Kelly Clarkson Fills In For Simon Cowell As He Recovers From Accident

Aug 12, 2020

Kelly Clarkson filled in for Simon Cowell as America's Got Talent aired its first live show Tuesday from Universal Studios Hollywood. The 60-year-old judge and show creator broke his back in an e-bike accident on Saturday and is set to undergo intensive physical therapy before he can return.

Clarkson, 38, took to Instagram on Tuesday to make the announcement in a form of an "urgent memo," saying:

"My dear friend, Simon Cowell, was in an accident and wont be able to make Tuesday and Wednesday's live shows for AGT, but no worries America, someone far wiser, cooler, and hotter is taking his seat! The unbelievably amazing Kelly Clarkson 😜  You're welcome in advance!

"As some of you might know, Simon Cowell had an accident over the weekend, and he can't be here tonight," show host Terry Crews, 52, declared on the show on Tuesday, saying the cast sent him "lots of AGT love."

When asked what it was like to fill Cowell's shoes, the 38-year-old singer admitted she felt "good" trading places with the man that once judged her when she won the first season of American Idol. "I have waited years for this!' she cracked. "I love Simon, but I'm gettin' real used to this chair, buddy. I'm just sayin'—take your time… I could use another job."

"All kidding aside," she added, “I hope he feels better. I love him, so I didn’t mind stepping in for him.”

Clarkson released another update on her Instagram — a video of her "working on [her] lines, some of Simon's best lines." In a 'British accent', she impressions Cowell saying, "I don't like it, I love it," as well as "What the bl**dy h*ll was that?" She also jests that what she's missing is "tiny glasses and a black shirt."

In response to Clarkson, Cowell thanked her via Twitter on Wednesday saying: "Thank you @kellyclarkson. Miss all of you. What a Great Show. #AGT"

According to Sky News, following his operation, Cowell joked about his bike skills and thanked medical staff for their care. He tweeted: "Some good advice... If you buy an electric trail bike, read the manual before you ride it for the first time. I have broken part of my back. Thank you to everyone for your kind messages." A second message read:

"And a massive thank you to all the nurses and doctors. Some of the nicest people I have ever met. Stay safe everyone,"

In case you missed the first live show of AGT here are some clips:

Do you think Kelly should be a permanent judge on America's Got Talent? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and be sure to pass this along to your friends and family!