AMERICA’S Got Talent judge Howie Mandel skipped the live results show after his family heartbreak was revealed – before an update was given on his comeback date.
Howie, 69, is the longest-tenured judge on the NBC series, joining during the show’s fifth season and replacing David Hasselhoff.

Howie Mandel skipped AGT’s live results show after a heartbreaking family loss[/caption]
Howie, 69, had suffered a ‘loss in the family’ – and fans were quick to support the star on social media[/caption]
It was revealed the comedian would be back next week[/caption]
Yet yesterday, scenes aired on AGT panned to an empty red chair at the end of the table where Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara and Mel B.
Host Terry Crews addressed the absence and said: “Now you have probably noticed there’s an empty chair here.
“Howie has had a loss in the family so he’s not going to be with us tonight.
“Our best wishes go out to Howie and he will be back next week.”
Fans were also quick to share their messages of support on social media site X.
One wrote: “Sending condolences out to Howie and his family.”|
A second posted: “I hope Howie is doing okay,” as a third put: “Howie is having a rough day today too apparently.”
One then posted a graphic which read: “Thinking of you and sending love and hugs your way,” before they added the caption: “To Howie, his family and friends out there re whatever is going on in your world atm.”
Another surmized: “Very well said, sending thoughts and prayers over to @howiemandel.”
and his folks.
BUZZ OFF
Earlier this week, fans suggested Howie was “forced” to choose his Golden Buzzer act after leaving his selection until the last minute.
Howie waited until the second-to-last act before he plunged down the iconic show button.
Fans had begged him to pick the TT Boys or Gendai, but Howie remained firm and went through the majority of the show having not picked his Golden Buzzer act.
It was after Team Recycled performed that Howie gave in and hit the Golden Buzzer in a controversial moment.
Team Recycled, a dance troop, stormed the stage with powerful choreography and diverse dance styles.
America’s Got Talent judges

THOUSANDS of hopefuls have graced the America’s Got Talent stage to showcase their abilities.
Here is some more information about the A-list judges for season 20:
Simon Cowell – On October 22, 2015, it was revealed Simon was replacing Howard Stern on the AGT judges panel. He became a judge during the program’s 11th season and has since remained a series regular.
Mel B – In March 2013, Mel B was announced as Sharon Osbourne’s replacement on AGT. She remained on the show for five seasons before leaving in 2018. She made her grand return this year for season 20.
Sofia Vergara – On February 27, 2020, NBC revealed Sofia was replacing Gabrielle Union for AGT season 15.
Howie Mandel – Out of all the panelists, Howie Mandel is the longest-tenured judge on America’s Got Talent. Howie joined the hit reality series during the show’s 5th season, replacing David Hasselhoff.
PAST FORM
Fans also demanded he take a comment “back” after a harsh critique of one act.
Last month, Howie was scolded by judge Sofia for his cruel remarks toward a child act, as he again appeared to be the only one who wasn’t a fan of their routine.
He told them he thought they’d struggle against the other talent in the competition.
Although he was instantly booed by the audience and questioned by fellow judge Sofia, his opinion appeared to have an impact, as they were later eliminated.
Next week marks the start of the AGT semifinals, and a winner will be crowned on September 24 on NBC.

Howie ordinarily occupies the end seat of the panel[/caption]
He joined the show in season five[/caption]
Fans called out his choice of Golden Buzzer act this week[/caption]