Heidi Klum has spent years as a beloved judge on America’s Got Talent – but in season 20, there was a casting shakeup! Life & Style rounds up what we know so far about Heidi’s departure from the judges’ table.
Why Isn’t Heidi Klum a Judge on ‘AGT’ Season 20?
While fans may be disappointed that they will no longer see the bubbly judge on AGT, she appears to have left for an exciting reason! She announced her return as host for the upcoming season of Project Runway, which is set to premiere on July 31, 2025. Meanwhile, season 20 of AGT is expected to air its final live show in mid-August 2025.
Heidi previously hosted 16 seasons of the popular fashion competition, which highlights amateur stylists as they compete for a cash prize and a mentorship from a major brand.
Despite leaving the show in 2018, Heidi revealed that coming back as host has felt like “coming home.”
“I can do it with my eyes closed, even though I’m judging clothes, so I have to have my eyes open, but I can do it with my eyes closed,” she joked to People in May 2025. “I just love fashion so much, and I love how interested they are and how they’re champing at the bit to get a spot in the fashion industry. So, it’s so fun to give them a platform to show what they can do.”
Who Is Taking Heidi Klum’s Place on ‘AGT’ Season 20?
Spice Girls alum Mel B – who previously left the show in 2019 – made her own grand return to the judge’s table in season 20.
“I’m beyond thrilled to be back at AGT,” she shared in a March 2025 interview with People. “Not only is it the 20th anniversary of the show, but it’s also a real homecoming for me, and I couldn’t be happier or more excited to be back.”
“So fasten your seatbelts, everyone, because I’m here, and I’m going to stir things up and be my usual loud, proud, Scary Spice self,” she added at the time. “This season is going to be unmissable!”
Who Are the Other Judges on ‘AGT’ Season 20?
Aside from Mel B, comedian Howie Mandel, Modern Family actress Sofía Vergara and AGT executive producer Simon Cowell will serve as the other three judges.
Simon, who also helped create the show, said it was “absolutely brilliant” that the show was coming back for its 20th season.
“Over the years, we have seen some amazing acts and met some truly incredible people. It’s true that two or three minutes can change your life,” Simon said earlier this year. “Now, as always, I am really excited to meet the contestants this year.”
Sofía Vergara Was ‘Nervous’ About Heidi Klum Leaving ‘AGT’
The Griselda actress told NBC Insider that she was a little bit “nervous” about Heidi’s departure because they’d been on the show together for so long. However, she immediately formed a bond with Mel B.
“It’s crazy because we just fit in together,” she said at the time. “It was, like, wonderful.”
How to Watch ‘AGT’ Season 20
Season 20 of AGT premiered on May 27, 2025. Fans can catch new episodes on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, or watch it streaming the next day on Peacock.
