Unveiling the Incredible Evolution of 'America's Got Talent' Judges: From Howard Stern to Gabrielle Union and Beyond!
Discover the captivating array of 'America's Got Talent' judges throughout the years! From Howard Stern to Kelly Clarkson, this star-studded panel, including Gabrielle Union and Simon Cowell, has enthralled audiences with their diverse expertise Delve into the dynamic world of AGT's iconic judges! (345 characters)
America's Got Talent, which premiered in June 2006, has undergone numerous changes over the years, particularly with regards to its panel of judges.
Originally created by Simon Cowell, the show initially featured Piers Morgan, David Hasselhoff, and Sharon Osbourne as its judges. However, the format later expanded to include four judges, with Cowell himself taking on a judging role.
In 2019, AGT gained attention when judges Julianne Hough and Gabrielle Union left the show after season 14. It was later revealed that Union was released from the series for encouraging the crew to address an offensive joke that was made during filming.
The following year, Union publicly criticized the "toxic" environment on AGT. Speaking to Variety in May 2020, she expressed feeling isolated and unfairly targeted, stating that her requests for basic regulations, such as prohibiting smoking in Simon Cowell's dressing room due to its impact on her health, were ignored. Union emphasized her desire to have a workplace where she felt safe, healthy, and heard.
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Fremantle, Syco and NBC launched an investigation following her claims but found no evidence that the environment wasn’t inclusive.
Scroll down to see all the stars who served as AGT judges:
Credit: Shutterstock/NBC
'America's Got Talent' Judges Through the Years: Howard Stern, Gabrielle Union and More
America's Got Talent, which premiered in June 2006, has undergone several alterations, one of which involves periodically replacing the panel of judges.
Initially devised by Simon Cowell, the show featured Piers Morgan, David Hasselhoff, and Sharon Osbourne as the judging panel. Eventually, a fourth judge was added, and Cowell himself took up a position at the table.
In 2019, AGT gained attention when Julianne Hough and Gabrielle Union, judges for season 14, departed from the show. Later reports emerged stating that Union was released from the series for encouraging individuals on set to stand up against an offensive joke made during filming.
The following year, Union publicly criticized the "toxic" environment on AGT. In May 2020, she expressed her feelings of isolation and being unfairly targeted, explaining that all she was asking for were basic regulations to be followed. She cited allegations of Simon Cowell smoking in his dressing room, which negatively affected her health. Her desire was simply to come to work and have a healthy, safe, and supportive environment where she would be heard.
Fremantle, Syco and NBC launched an investigation following her claims but found no evidence that the environment wasn’t inclusive.
Scroll down to see all the stars who served as AGT judges:
Credit: Shutterstock
Piers Morgan
Morgan was initially included in the original panel of judges when the show commenced. He remained a part of the show for six seasons before departing prior to season seven. However, he made a comeback as a guest judge in season ten.
Credit: Shutterstock
David Hasselhoff
The Baywatch alum was an original judge, appearing on the first four seasons of AGT.
Credit: Photo by MediaPunch/Shutterstock
Brandy
The singer initially served as a judge but decided to step down after just one season, citing that she was unable to dedicate the necessary attention and commitment to the upcoming season.
Credit: Shutterstock
Sharon Osbourne
Upon Norwood's decision to exit, Osbourne was brought in as her replacement for season 2. She remained on the show until leaving at the end of season 7.
Credit: NBC
Howie Mandel
When Hasselhoff left, Mandel joined the show in season 4. He has remained on the judging panel ever since.
Credit: Shutterstock
Howard Stern
The show welcomed the arrival of a new radio personality in season 7, taking over from Morgan. Given that his radio show was situated on the east coast, the live shows were relocated from Los Angeles to New Jersey. He continued his role as a judge until the conclusion of season 10.
Credit: Photo by Broadimage/Shutterstock
Mel B
The Spice Girls singer became a part of the show during its expansion in season 8, taking on the role of the fourth judge. After season 13, she made the decision to leave the show in order to dedicate her attention to other projects. Following that, Mel went on to serve as a judge in season 1 of America's Got Talent: The Champions, which was aired in 2019. In September 2023, it was officially announced that Mel would be rejoining the AGT family as a judge for the spinoff AGT: Fantasy League.
Credit: NBC
Heidi Klum
Klum replaced Osbourne in season 8 and the model sat at the judge's table for six seasons, leaving ahead of season 14. After one year off, she returned in season 15.
Credit: NBC
Simon Cowell
After Stern's exit, Cowell came on board as a judge for season 11. The live shows then returned to the west coast.
Credit: NBC
Gabrielle Union
: Racism Allegations Emerge Following Mel B's DepartureAfter Mel B's departure,
Gabrielle Union
was brought onboard for season 14. Unfortunately, she was dismissed by the end of the season and later made shocking claims about numerous racially charged incidents that occurred on set. The network's spokesperson responded by stating that the show has a longstanding commitment to inclusivity and diversity, emphasizing their sincere concern for addressing any on-set issues.
Credit: NBC
Julianne Hough
The dancer took over Klum's seat for season 14, but her contract was not renewed after one year.
Credit: NBC
Sofia Vergara
The Modern Family alum joined the show in season 15 following Hough's exit.
Credit: NBC
Kelly Clarkson
While never a full-time judge, the American Idol winner temporarily stepped in during season 15 after Cowell broke his back.
