Simon Cowell is extending his stay with NBC and as judge of the summer reality staple "America's Got Talent'. This means that Cowell will be connected with the Peacock network for the next three seasons or at least through 2019.
Although Cowell was already connected with the reality competition show as part of its creative team, it was his debut last cycle as part of the show's cast. His addition to the show coincided with the five year high ratings for "America's Got Talent", which finished the off-season as broadcast TV's no. 1 show both in viewers and in the coveted 18-49 demographics.
In an article by The Hollywood Reporter, NBC Entertainment Chief for Alternative and Reality Paul Telegdy said that he feels ecstatic to have Simon Cowell as part of the show's judging panel.
"His brilliance has made America's Got Talent the industry leader that it is today and his ability to evaluate and spot talent is unmatched, so we couldn't be happier to have him seated at the judge's table for the next three years," he added.
Cowell, on the other hand, expressed excitement for the coming seasons of the show. America's Got Talent is a fantastic and - most importantly - fun show both to work on and to watch," said Cowell. "NBC have been brilliant partners and the entire team who make this show are one of the best in the world. I've loved this past season and look forward to discovering more great talent together in the years to come."
His appearance in "America's Got Talent" marked Cowell's comeback to American television after a three-year hiatus. He left "American Idol" and served as judge of the American version "The X Factor". After three seasons, "The X Factor" was cancelled by the FOX network. He then served as judge of the "The X Factor UK" for three seasons, before returning to the United States for "America's Got Talent".
"America's Got Talent" was this year's biggest summer broadcast show. TV By The Numbers reported that the finale of its latest cycle was watched by 14.14 million viewers and had an impressive 2.7 of the 18-49 demographic share. It is hosted by Nick Cannon and Cowell is joined by Howie Mandel, "Project Runway" host Heidi Klum, and former "Spice Girls" member Mel B. as judges.
