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Carlo Orosa - The Philippine Star
May 4, 2025 | 12:00am
The powerhouse judging panel of ‘America’s Got Talent’ is back in full force: Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara and Simon Cowell (rightmost), who is the show’s creator and central force, with Spice Girls alum Mel B (second from left) returning as an ‘AGT’ judge, replacing Heidi Klum. Hosting once again is Terry Crews (center).
Photo from official ‘AGT’ Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines — After two decades of discovering stars, changing lives and redefining entertainment television, NBC’s “America’s Got Talent (AGT)” is pulling out all the stops for its landmark 20th season premiering on May 27.
With a legacy as the most-watched summer series year after year, “AGT’s” 20th season promises a fresh wave of unforgettable talent, emotional storytelling and a few stunning surprises — including the long-awaited return of a fan-favorite who helped define its earliest days.
When “America’s Got Talent” first premiered in 2006, no one could have predicted that it would grow into one of the most successful and enduring talent competitions in the world. Created by Simon Cowell, “AGT” gave the stage not just to singers and dancers, but to magicians, comedians, acrobats and everyday dreamers of all ages. Its format broke barriers and brought global attention to the idea that anyone — no matter their background — could capture America’s heart.
Now, with Season 20, the show celebrates its journey with a season that looks both forward and back. From star-studded guest appearances and spectacular new acts to special tributes honoring two decades of talent, “AGT’s” 20th season is more than just a competition — it’s a celebration of realized dreams.
The powerhouse judging panel is back in full force: Simon, the show’s creator and central force, returns with his signature sharp eye and occasional soft heart; Howie Mandel, the ever-enthusiastic veteran with a sharp wit; and Sofía Vergara, whose charisma and charm have made her a fan favorite. Spice Girls alum Mel B is returning to the “AGT” judges panel, replacing Heidi Klum. Hosting once again is the unstoppable Terry Crews, who continues to bring golden buzzer moments.
Before she became a household name as the powerhouse runner-up in ‘American Idol’ Season 11, Jessica Sanchez first stepped onto a national stage as an 11-year-old contestant on ‘America’s Got Talent’ Season 1 in 2006. Now, nearly 20 years later, Jessica returns to the show where it all began — not as a wide-eyed child, but as a seasoned artist, respected vocalist and proud representative of her Filipino-American heritage.
But this season, it’s not just the judges and host fans will recognize. Reports from behind the scenes hint at a powerful moment in the premiere episode: The return of Jessica Sanchez, a name that holds special meaning for longtime fans of talent competitions.
Before she became a household name as the powerhouse runner-up in “American Idol” Season 11, Jessica first stepped onto a national stage as a young contestant on Season 1 of “America’s Got Talent” in 2006. Just 11 years old at the time, she made an impression with her precocious voice and poise even though her “AGT” journey ended in the semifinals.
Now, nearly 20 years later, Jessica returns to the show where it all began — not as a wide-eyed child, but as a seasoned artist, respected vocalist and proud representative of her Filipino-American heritage. Her rumored return during the premiere is said to be one of the most moving moments of the episode — and perhaps the season.
And what makes it even more compelling is her reunion with Simon, the man who watched her career rise from both near and afar. While Simon wasn’t on the “AGT” panel during Season 1, his influence as the show’s creator loomed large and his critiques of Jessica during her “American Idol” days helped shape her as an artist.
To see Jessica and Simon share the same stage, years later, is expected to be a highlight of the night. It can also be seen as a testament to “AGT’s” legacy of launching stars, even if their initial journeys didn’t go all the way.
Jessica’s return is just one piece of the puzzle for Season 20. The auditions, filmed in front of a live audience, bring together one of the most diverse and daring groups of performers yet. Expect everything from death-defying stunts and mind-bending magic to jaw-dropping vocalists and genre-defying artists.
The show will also include new features to mark the anniversary season: A special “AGT Hall of Fame” segment on standout acts from past years, exclusive behind-the-scenes retrospectives and check-ins with past winners and viral sensations who got their start on the “AGT” stage.
“America’s Got Talent” has launched dozens of careers, from ventriloquist Darci Lynne Farmer and magician Shin Lim to singers like Kodi Lee and Grace VanderWaal. But more than just creating stars, the show has become a cultural touchstone — a place where dreams come alive and where audiences gather or tune in to be inspired.
As it begins its historic 20th season, “AGT” shows no signs of slowing down and remains one of television’s most essential viewing experiences.
