MUMBAI: Simon Cowell, the creator of the worldwide phenomenon 'Got Talent' format and one of the most instrumental figures in television over the past two decades, has signed on for three years through 2019 as a judge on NBC’s summer sensation 'America’s Got Talent'.

Cowell, who served as a judge on the series for the first time this past season, will once again be joined by Mel B, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel when season 12 launches in summer 2017. Nick Cannon also returns as host.

“It was terrific to see Simon in his judge’s chair this past season, bringing his unique expertise and enthusiasm to the show, night after night,” said Paul Telegdy, President, Alternative and Reality Group, NBC Entertainment. “His brilliance has made ‘AGT’ the industry leader that it is today and his ability to evaluate and spot talent is unmatched, so we couldn’t be happier to have him seated at the judge’s table for the next three years.”

"America's Got Talent is a fantastic and - most importantly - fun show both to work on and to watch,” said Cowell. “NBC have been brilliant partners and the entire team who make this show are one of the best in the world. I've loved this past season and look forward to discovering more great talent together in the years to come."

Cowell is repped by WME and Ziffren Brittenham. Ari Emanuel brokered the deal.

'American’s Got Talent' has reigned as television’s #1 most-watched summer alternative series for each of its 11 seasons on the air, and this year ranked #1 among all summer series in adults 18-49 and total viewers. 'Talent' surged to its highest adult 18-49 average in three years and most-watched season in five years. In 18-49, Tuesday and Wednesday editions of 'Talent' averaged a 3.0 rating, according to Nielsen Media Research, best for the show since 2013. This year’s total-viewer average was 13.5 million, best since 'Talent' delivered 13.6 million in 2011.

Cowell, who continues his role as executive producer of 'America’s Got Talent',is a music executive, TV producer and star of some of the highest-rated television shows in the world. His discerning eye for talent and candid remarks have transformed popular culture and made him a household name across the globe, influencing TV and music for more than a decade.

Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment, a joint venture between Cowell and Sony Music, is one of the world’s leading global music, film and television production companies responsible for some of the most successful global TV and music franchises.

The Got Talent format officially holds the Guinness Book of World Records title for highest number of adaptations, making it the “Worlds Most Successful Reality TV Format.” America’s Got Talent airs in 186 countries around the globe.

In the just-concluded 11th season, 12-year-old singer and ukulele player Grace VanderWaal was voted the winner and earned $1 million. VanderWaal, who will headline inside the PH Showroom at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on Oct. 27-30, won over viewers with her incredible musical performances and talent that outshone thousands of acts, including finalists Jon Dorenbos, Sofie Dossi, Tape Face, The Clairvoyants, Viktor Kee, Laura Bretan, Sal Valentinetti, Brian Justin Crum and Linkin Bridge.

Auditions for Season 12 are now open.