‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 20 Premieres Soon

Later this month “America’s Got Talent” kicks off its landmark 20th season on NBC, premiering Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, with next-day streaming on Peacock. Since its debut in 2006, the Simon Cowell created talent show has launched stars like Terry Fator and Grace VanderWaal, and Season 20 promises to elevate the stakes with eye-opening acts and a refreshed judging panel. As the show celebrates two decades of discovering extraordinary talent, from singers to sword swallowers, fans are excited for excitement to unfold. Here’s everything to know about the milestone season, from judges to Golden Buzzers.

Judges and Host: A Spicy Reunion

Season 20 welcomes back Mel B, the Spice Girls star and “AGT” veteran, replacing Heidi Klum on the judging panel alongside Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, and Sofía Vergara. Mel B, who judged Seasons 8-13 and “AGT: The Champions” in 2019, brings her bold energy, telling People on March 18, 2025, “It’s a real homecoming for me.” Her return, teased in a vibrant trailer, has sparked excitement, with Cowell saying, “We’re still here 20 years later, who knows what’s going to happen next,” Parade noted. Terry Crews, the charismatic host since Season 14, returns for his seventh year. The panel’s chemistry, blending Cowell’s sharp critiques with Mel B’s fiery flair, sets the stage for unforgettable moments.

Premiere and Format: Bigger and Bolder

The two-hour premiere on May 27 launches eight weeks of auditions, filmed in Pasadena, California, where acts need three “yes” votes from judges to advance, NBCUMV detailed. Live shows start August 19 at 8 p.m. ET, with results airing Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET. Later comes the September finale where America’s vote crowns a $1 million winner. Season 19’s rule-bending allowed judges two Golden Buzzers each. This may carry over, promising more acts fast-tracked to the live shows. The trailer hints at epic moments, including a nostalgic nod to Season 1’s Jessica Sanchez returning to perform, with Vergara calling it “a very special moment,” Deadline noted. The show’s inclusivity shines, welcoming all ages and talents, from comedians to contortionists.

Acts to Watch: A Diverse Lineup

Season 20’s auditions, which wrapped in March 2025, had a wild mix of performers, from a three-year-old singing ‘Moana’ to a drag queen comedian from Tulsa, Parade highlighted. Virtual and in-person open calls in Pasadena filtered thousands, with producers seeking “the best of the best,” per NBC’s Theresa Graham. The trailer showcases returning faces like Sanchez and teases mind-blowing acts, with Mandel demanding “bigger, better than we’ve ever seen before,” Deadline reported. After Season 19’s Richard Goodall, a janitor-turned-singer, won with his viral “Don’t Stop Believin’” cover, expectations are high for another underdog story. With “AGT’s” history of launching Vegas acts like Shin Lim, the season’s performers are poised to redefine talent.

What to Expect: A Celebration of 20 Years

Marking 20 years since its 2006 debut, Season 20 blends nostalgia with innovation. The trailer revisits winners like Kodi Lee and Darci Lynne, while Cowell told NBC, “Two minutes can change your life.” Expect Golden Buzzer surprises, emotional stories, and high-stakes live shows at the Dolby Theatre, with voting via NBC.com or the “AGT” app. This season will be a spectacle, from a potential comedian champion to dazzling group acts, “AGT” aim to top Season 19’s 5.5 million average viewers. Tune in to NBC or Peacock to witness a season that promises to make history.