‘America’s Got Talent’ Sets Sofia Vergara as New Judge, Heidi Klum to Return
“America’s Got Talent” has filled its two remaining judge chairs.
Sofia Vergara has been picked as the series’ newest addition, with “AGT: Champions” judge Heidi Klum also returning. They join existing judges Simon Cowell, who created and executive produces the talent competition series, and Howie Mandell. Terry Crews remains the host.
Vergara recently wrapped filming on the 11th and final season of “Modern Family.” The native Colombian received four Outstanding Supporting Actress Primetime Emmy nominations for playing Gloria Delgado-Pritchett.
Klum, who is also the host of fashion competition series “Making the Cut” on Amazon opposite her “Project Runway” partner Tim Gunn, recently judged the latest season of “AGT: The Champions,” and previously judged the regular “AGT” series for six seasons from 2013 to 2018.
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“I’m so happy to join my new family on ‘AGT,'” Vergara said. “This is a new and exciting next chapter for me and I’m extremely proud to be the first Latin judge on the show. I can’t wait to watch all the talent and have fun with all you guys!”
“I’m so excited to be back at ‘AGT’ with Simon, Howie and Terry. The fact that Sofia Vergara is joining us is the icing on an already delicious cake,” Klum said.
Vergara and Klum fill the chairs vacated by outgoing judges Gabrielle Union and Julianne Hough. Both exited the show at the end of last season, with Union exiting amid some tension with the show’s producers.
News of Union’s departure was accompanied by multiple reports describing behind-the-scenes clashes between her and the show’s producers over what was described as a “toxic” workplace culture. Former “AGT” judges Howard Stern and Sharon Osbourne subsequently spoke out against the “boys’ club” environment on the show, which they said was facilitated by Cowell.
Also Read: Former 'AGT' Judge Heidi Klum Weighs in on Flap Over Gabrielle Union Ouster
“Sofia’s infectious energy and sharp wit will blend perfectly with returning favorites Heidi, Simon, Howie, and Terry. As both a respected actress and successful entrepreneur, she embodies the American dream that is synonymous with AGT’s transformative stage,” said Meredith Ahr, president of Alternative and Reality Group at NBC Entertainment.
“As we head into our milestone 15th season, we are excited to welcome Sofia to the AGT family,” said Trish Kinane, president of Entertainment Programming at Fremantle. “We are also delighted at the return of the amazing Heidi Klum and look forward to a lot of fun as these dynamic, accomplished women join Simon, Howie and host Terry Crews to inspire contestants in a fun-filled and unpredictable series.”
Read original story ‘America’s Got Talent’ Sets Sofia Vergara as New Judge, Heidi Klum to Return At TheWrap
