Heidi Klum‘s ‘America's Got Talent’ exit and Mel B's return in huge casting shakeup leaves fans divided

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: ‘America’s Got Talent’ has undergone a major shake-up in its judges’ lineup as long-time judge Heidi Klum is not returning to the show in its upcoming Season 20. 

Klum, who has been a judge for 11 of the past 12 seasons, will not be returning for the upcoming season that will premiere on May 27. While no reason for her departure has been given officially, the news came at the heels of her announcement to return to ‘Project Runway’ - which she previously hosted from 2004 to 2017. 

While the German-born 51-year-old model is not returning to the judge’s seat, she is getting replaced by Melanie Brown, more popularly known as Mel B.

Heidi Klum is being replaced by Mel B as 'AGT' judge

Mel B, however, is not a new face on ‘AGT’ as she previously judged the talent show from Seasons 8 to 13 where Heidi Klum was also a co-judge. 

Nevertheless, the recurring three 'AGT' judges - Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel and Sofia Vergara are returning for Season 20 of the show which has remained a summer favorite for the nation for many years. Terry Crews is also making a return as a host.

Last year in September, Richard Goodall was crowned the winner of Season 19. 

Klum initially joined the ‘AGT’ crew in 2013, judging on Seasons 8-13. Following a hiatus in Season 14, the ‘Ella Enchanted’ star made a comeback in Season 15 to judge till the latest Season 19. 

Mel B, who was also brought in the show’s eighth season, judged alongside Klum from seasons 8 to 13, before taking her leave from the reality series. 

Apart from her regular judging duties, Mel B also appeared on the ‘AGT’ spinoffs ‘America's Got Talent: The Champions’ and ‘AGT: Fantasy League’ in 2019 and 2024, per USA Today. 

As 'AFT' is gearing up for another eventful summer comprising of spectacular performances, Simon Cowell shared in a statement, "Over the years, we have seen some amazing acts and met some truly incredible people.”

He continued, "It's true that two or three minutes can change your life. I want to thank every contestant, all the fans who have supported the show every year and to NBC for believing in this show."

He further added, according to Ace Showbiz, "It's absolutely brilliant to announce our 20th season of 'AGT'. Over the years, we've seen amazing acts and met truly incredible people. It's true that two or three minutes can change your life."

Change in 'America's Got Talent's'judges' lineup divides Internet

The internet was torn between the judges' swap as several fans mourned Heidi Klum's departure from the show, while some welcomed Mel B's return.

One social media user said on Facebook, "I’m going to miss Heidi! She’s my favorite!"

Someone else said, "Really gonna miss Heidi but I understand why she left. I LOVE Mel b and in super excited for her to come back. I really wish they would replace Howie though. He has been annoying the last couple seasons."

"I LOVE Mel B!!! So happy she's back!!!" declared someone else. Another fan was, however, not that welcoming as they wrote, "Won’t be watching this season since Mel B will be back!"

Someone else penned, "Really gonna miss Heidi! But love MB, so..."

Another social media user, meanwhile said, "Maybe if Simon was gone, someone with actual talent might win." Similarly, someone else noted, "Team Mel B all the way super stoked she’s back!!! Pity Heidi is gone and not Sophia but hey that’s life."

A social media user declared boldly, however, "No Heidi no AGT."

Someone else, meanwhile professed on Instagram, "Mel B and Sofia! 🤩 can’t wait! I will miss Heidi for sure!" while one user stated, "Not Mel B!! Heidi come back!!"

"But I am sad that Heidi isn’t here," added another fan, as someone else suggested, "@officialmelb and @sofiavergara it’s gonna be so much fun! They should have an “accent” battle 😅."

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