Terry Crews is making it clear, don’t expect to see him sitting at the judges’ table on America’s Got Talent anytime soon.
The actor and former football star, who’s been hosting the show since season 14 in 2019, told PEOPLE at a red carpet event celebrating the show’s 20th season that judging just isn’t his thing. Instead, he’s all about being the contestants’ biggest supporter and protector.
“I’m 100% the bodyguard of talent,” Crews explained. “When I see all these people coming through, they remind me of me.” He shared how he remembers himself praying back in Michigan for a chance to make it big in L.A. and how that empathy drives him to shield the contestants as they take the stage.
“I protect it, and I watch them,” Crews said, describing his role as more than just a host. He’s the counselor for contestants, offering advice before they perform and comforting them afterward, no matter how their act goes. “If it didn’t go well, I console them. I love that.”
So while Terry Crews isn’t interested in judging America’s Got Talent, he did drop a suggestion for a judge he thinks would kill it alongside Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B. “Chris Rock would be a great judge,” Crews said. “He knows funny, but he knows entertainment.”
For Crews, hosting AGT has been a dream come true. “This is a dream gig,” he said. “Where else can you go where the whole world is watching?” With millions tuning in from around the globe, the show’s massive stage is the perfect place for Crews to do what he loves most-championing talent.
As America’s Got Talent kicks off its milestone 20th season on Tuesday, May 27, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, Crews continues to bring his unique blend of energy, empathy, and encouragement to the show. His role may not come with a judging badge, but his impact on the contestants is undeniable.
