Terry Crews has made a unique niche on America’s Got Talent. He can be exuberantly rushing onstage, filled with joy and energy or standing behind the curtain, nervous with a contestant, waiting for the audition to begin; either way, Crews has achieved a consistent, heartfelt presence on AGT. But when it comes to joining the judges’ table? That’s a role he’s not even remotely interested in.
“I could never be a judge. That’s not my thing,” Crews said in an exclusive interview. “I’m here to support these amazing people. I feel like the bodyguard of talent.”
Why He’s Happy Staying Out of the Judge’s Chair
For Crews, hosting AGT isn’t just about introducing acts—it’s about providing a safe space for artists who are about to put their hearts on the line.
“I protect them. I give them hugs. I run out on the stage and tell them everything’s gonna be OK,” he explained. “That’s where I belong.”
While the judges frequently have to offer harsh criticism, Crews views his job as serving as the contestants’ emotional support system, cheerleader, and protector. For him, it’s a personal work that enables him to relate to individuals at their most vulnerable times.
The Emotional Toll of Performing Live
Crews knows firsthand how intense the AGT stage can be. Just recently, he shared a harrowing story about a dancer collapsing in his arms during Season 20 auditions. That moment shook him deeply and reminded him how much heart and energy every contestant brings to the stage.
“She’s OK now, but that moment really, really messed me up,” Crews said. “She had worked hard, and her body just gave out.”
It’s that kind of emotional experience that fuels his passion for being backstage rather than in the judge’s seat. To Crews, every performer is taking a huge leap—and he wants to be the one to catch them if they fall.
His Journey From Contestant to “Protector of Talent”
Crews’ understanding of what it means to be on the edge of success and failure comes from personal experience. The former NFL player-turned-actor and host has seen the highs and lows of performance culture, and that perspective makes him deeply empathetic to AGT hopefuls.
“I know how it feels to want something so badly, to be nervous, to question if you’re good enough,” he once shared in another interview. “I want every person who walks on that stage to feel seen and supported.”
Season 20 Brings More Talent—and More Heart
As America’s Got Talent prepares for its Season 20 premiere on May 28, Crews is once again stepping into his role as host with open arms. He will be there every step of the way, offering support, consolation, and celebration to an amazing new cast of singers, dancers, magicians, and daredevils preparing to take the stage.
Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara are back on the judges’ bench to provide feedback and select the next big talent. But Terry Crews? He’s more than content just being the guy who keeps the dream alive between auditions.
Crews Knows His Strength and It Isn’t Judging
There’s something admirable about someone knowing exactly where they shine. For Crews, that’s not behind the judge’s table—it’s in the wings, backstage, and moments between triumph and tears.
“I love my role. I love being the guy that tells them they did great even if they didn’t get through. Everyone needs someone like that in their corner,” he said.
So while fans might love to see his charisma in the judge’s seat someday, don’t hold your breath. Terry Crews has already found his purpose on AGT, and it doesn’t involve a buzzer.
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