America’s Got Talent returns for its 20th season this week. And to celebrate the milestone, the show has a new twist.
“I get really, really anxious and nervous before any season,” Simon Cowell says in the Season 20 teaser below. “I suppose, because it’s the 20th year, that puts even more pressure on everyone. So, we’re just going to pray that people turned out this year.”
“Otherwise we’re screwed,” he chuckles, as a massive throng of hopeful auditioners head toward the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
What is the America’s Got Talent Season 20 twist?
In honor of the show’s 20th season, viewers will go behind the scenes with a closer look at production. Not only will we see how everything works, but we’ll also get a peak at how AGT judges Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, Mel B and Simon spend their downtime between scenes.
Eventually, the other judges arrive and begin greeting prospective contestants. It must be Bring Your Dog to Work Day, because Sofia cuddles the cutest little chihuahua in her arms. Likewise, immaculately dressed host Terry Crews mingles with the crowd, welcoming everyone and making small talk.
Finally, Mel B arrives just as her giant “X” is being unveiled onstage. As she steps off the elevator, she enthusiastically hugs Howie and Sofia. “You look gorgeous!” she tells Sofia, as the Modern Family alum thanks her.
Happy to be returning to the show, Mel finds Simon in his trailer and gives him a hug, too. “She’s baaaack!” he laughs.
In a statement shared with People, Simon explains how AGT’s new format gives viewers a deeper dive behind the scenes.
“This season is special,” the executive producer says. “We’re showing about 40% more of the process and everything that goes on behind the scenes … Fans will get to see what it’s like to be a contestant: the highs, the nerves, and the emotions. Everything.”
“This is something we all felt passion about sharing,” Simon adds. “I personally think this is the best first episode of AGT I’ve ever seen, and I hope you do too.”
America’s Got Talent Season 20 premieres May 27 at 8/7c on NBC and streams on Peacock the following day.
TELL US – ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO AMERICA’S GOT TALENT SEASON 20? WHO’S YOUR FAVORITE JUDGE?
