America’s Got Talent has always followed a specific format when it comes to selecting judges, with producers usually ensuring that the panel consists of a singer, a dancer, a comedian and an intimidating personality or celebrity, such as Simon Cowell or Howard Stern. Mandel has been the backbone of AGT’s comedic side for the last 15 years, meaning any potential candidates to take his place will likely need to have experience in the entertainment industry, or have a background in stand-up comedy. America’s Got Talent would also benefit from selecting a personality who is younger and can relate to the humor of the newer generation of fans, especially if NBC would like to improve their ratings in the key 18-49 demographic on cable.
It’s possible that Mandel could continue his run on America’s Got Talent for another five years in order to reach a 20-season milestone, but with the Canadian judge nearing 70 years of age, it might be in NBC’s best interest to cut the cord before things get worse. Mandel undoubtedly changed AGT for the better when he first arrived, and will forever be part of the show’s legacy, but his grumpy attitude and out-of-touch jokes are becoming glaring reasons for the comedian to finally call it quits. Hopefully 15 years is enough for Mandel, and he either voluntarily steps down, or America’s Got Talent makes the decision to release him on their own.
