Simon Cowell ‘will return to Britain’s Got Talent in January’ after bike crash

Recovering Simon Cowell will be back on the Britain’s Got Talent panel in January, according to reports.

Simon, 61, was forced to step down as head judge on the ITV show after a bike accident.

He was thrown off an electric bike earlier this year and broke his back in three places.

The horrific crash nearly paralysed him – and his recovery is taking longer than he had hoped.

But he is expected to take his place on the show when it returns in the New Year in what will be a big boost to TV bosses after a flat post-lockdown return with him.

“Simon was gutted at having to sit out the show this year,” a source told The Sun.

“But he’s been totally focused on getting better and will definitely be back on the panel.

“He’s come on in leaps and bounds recently, thanks to letting his body heal, a healthy diet and some California sun.

“He’s also enjoyed being surrounded by his family. But he loves his job and is raring to go, especially as BGT offers so much joy and light entertainment in dark times.”

The welcome news comes after reports the star was struggling with the aftermath of the accident.

A friend of Simon’s told The Daily Mail two weeks ago: “He definitely no longer feels invincible and this has been a wake up for him about his health and lifestyle.

“He was nearly paralysed and feels lucky to be recovering at all.”

But we could be set to see him back on our screens in January.

The telly source added: “The panel are all really excited to have him back, though they thought Ashley did a great job and he’ll definitely perform on the show again next year with Diversity.”

Last week Simon’s best friend, 80s singer Sinitta, revealed he has ditched his vegan diet and put on weight in a bid to aid his recovery.

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New YearSimon CowellITVBritain’s Got Talent