Simon Cowell returning as ‘America’s Got Talent’ judge

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – Simon Cowell will be back in front of the cameras for “America’s Got Talent” next season.

Cowell, who created the show’s format in Britain, is returning for his second round as a judge, NBC said Tuesday.

He’ll be reunited with Mel B, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel, who’s the longest-serving judge with seven seasons behind him. Nick Cannon will be back as host.

NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt said Cowell’s addition has boosted the panel’s chemistry. The talent show is drawing more viewers this summer than over the last five seasons, the network said.

The tart-tongued Cowell first made his reputation on U.S. television as a judge on “American Idol.”