After a two-year hiatus, Simon Cowell is back in America as he signed on as a judge for the next season of "America's Got Talent", People Magazine reported.

In an appearance on the "Today" show, Cowell said that it was the network which decided his fate, although he did admit to doing some prodding. He shared, "I kept sort of popping my head up, saying: 'You know, if you are looking for a very good-looking British judge who could sort of fit on this show, I know someone!' "

Cowell has been known for his candidness as a judge in several other reality shows, including "American Idol". Cowell spent nine years as a judge in Fox's successful "American Idol" but left in 2010, and the show will wrap up for the final time after its 15th season next year. He also acted as judge in "The X Factor" and "Britain's Got Talent". Although Cowell co-created the American version of the show, it isn't until season 11 where he will make a mark as a judge.

CNN noted that Cowell will be replacing Howard Stern, an equally outspoken judge on the show. In a statement, the British personality said, America has some fantastic talent just waiting to be discovered and I would like that talent to come to our show, including any dogs who can sing!"

The reality show judge shared his enthusiasm about the show, saying that "I think the "America's Got Talent" show honestly is one of the best talent shows in the world. I mean, I watch it back and it's like, 'Woah, this is a really good show.' "

His record on the franchise has also been good, but if you think he's going to be kinder to the contestants now, you're wrong. He's been adamant about getting the bad contestants out of the game. When asked whether or not he'll be a kinder critic to potential talents, Cowell merely responded, "If they're good, yes. If they're terrible, no. I can't sit in front of someone who is useless and say: 'Take a couple of singing lessons and everything will be fine.' "

Robert Greenblatt, NBC's chairman of Entertainment said, "We're thrilled to have him to step in front of the camera and take his rightful place at the head of the judges' panel. We welcome him to the on-screen NBC family."

Are you looking forward to seeing Simon Cowell back on American shores, or are you among those who believe he judged too harshly on AI?