Mel B, the iconic Scary Spice, made a dramatic return to America’s Got Talent Season 20 on May 27, 2025, after a six-season hiatus, and she’s already shaking things up.
Dubbed “Miss Kill-the-Mood” by Simon Cowell during the premiere, her bold judging style has sparked buzz among fans and contestants alike.
As AGT celebrates its 20th year, Mel B joins Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, and Sofía Vergara on the panel, bringing a fresh dynamic to the auditions.
But what does her return mean for aspiring performers? Let’s dive into Mel B’s judging style, her impact on AGT Season 20 auditions, and how you can impress her in 2025.
Mel B’s Comeback to AGT Season 20 – Why It’s Big News
Mel B’s return to AGT after being fired in 2019 has been a hot topic, with the star revealing the truth behind her exit in recent interviews.
“I was let go, and it hurt,” she admitted, but her comeback in Season 20 marks a triumphant return for the Spice Girls icon. In the premiere, she didn’t hold back, hitting the Red X on acts like Eric Booker, a competitive eater turned singer, prompting Simon Cowell to tease her as “Miss Kill-the-Mood.”
Her tough vibe has divided fans, with some on X cheering her return—“Mel B is back and I’m here for it! #AGT2025”—while others questioned, “Is Mel B too harsh on AGT 2025?”
“She’s like Miss Kill-the-Mood over there!” — Simon Cowell, AGT Season 20 Premiere
The controversy around her 2019 exit and her bold re-entry have made Mel B a trending topic, setting the stage for a season where her judging style could make or break contestants’ dreams.
Understanding Mel B’s Judging Style – What She Looks For
Mel B, known as Scary Spice, has a judging history that blends honesty with empathy. During her earlier AGT tenure (Seasons 8-13), she was known for bold Golden Buzzer picks, like ventriloquist Darci Lynne in Season 12, whom she called “off the chain.”
In the Season 20 premiere, she showed both sides of her style: she praised Jourdan Blue’s soulful take on “Breakeven” for its uniqueness, but buzzed Eric Booker for lacking energy. Her dynamic with Simon Cowell also added flair, with their playful banter—Simon’s “Miss Kill-the-Mood” jab—highlighting her no-nonsense approach.
What does Mel B look for in AGT auditions? Based on her feedback, she values originality, emotional depth, and high energy. She’s drawn to acts that stand out and tell a story, but she won’t hesitate to hit the Red X if an act feels flat or uninspired.
How Mel B’s Style Impacts AGT Season 20 Auditions
Mel B’s judging style poses both challenges and opportunities for contestants in AGT Season 20 auditions.
Her critical side means performers need to bring their A-game—low-energy acts like Eric Booker’s didn’t survive her scrutiny.
But her empathy shines through when acts connect authentically, as seen with Jourdan Blue, whose street performer story and unique vocals earned her praise. “You made that song your own,” she told Jourdan, showing her appreciation for originality.
Her return also comes with the new double Golden Buzzer twist, giving her two chances to send acts straight to the live shows starting August 19, 2025. This could be a game-changer for contestants who align with her taste for bold, heartfelt performances.
Tips to Impress Mel B on AGT
Want to stand out in AGT Season 20 auditions? Here’s how to impress Mel B, based on her judging style:
3 Tips to Impress Mel B
1. Be Bold and Fearless
Mel B, aka Scary Spice, loves acts that push boundaries and radiate confidence. She’s not interested in “safe” or generic performances—she wants to be entertained.
Example: On AGT UK, Mel B gave a standing ovation to comedian Jack Carroll, a teenage performer with cerebral palsy who delivered sharp, fearless jokes about his own condition. His confidence and humor earned her immediate respect.
“You owned that stage like a pro,” Mel said, clearly impressed by his guts and originality.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to show personality—even if it’s a little cheeky or unconventional.
2. Show Real Emotion and Passion
Mel B connects with performers who show vulnerability and heart. Whether you’re singing, dancing, or telling a story, she wants to feel something.
Example: In America’s Got Talent, Mel B was visibly moved by singer Evie Clair, who dedicated her performance to her terminally ill father. The emotional depth of her voice and story brought Mel to tears.
“That was so emotional… you’re incredibly brave,” she said, wiping her eyes.
Tip: Let your emotions fuel your performance. Don’t hold back—authenticity is magnetic.
3. Bring Something She’s Never Seen Before
Mel B has judged thousands of acts worldwide. To truly impress her, you need to offer something unexpected—something fresh.
Example: On Australia’s Got Talent, pole artist Kristy Sellars stunned Mel B with a futuristic act combining storytelling, projection mapping, and dance. It was a never-before-seen performance—and Mel was hooked.
“I’ve never seen anything like that in my life,” she said, pressing the Golden Buzzer.
Tip: Add a twist or innovation to your act that makes the judges sit up and say, “What just happened?”
What This Means for Aspiring Performers
Mel B’s return to AGT Season 20 brings a fresh dynamic to auditions, blending tough critiques with a passion for unique, emotional acts. Aspiring performers should study her premiere feedback—praise for Jourdan Blue, buzz for Eric Booker—to tailor their performances. Her presence offers both a challenge (navigating her critical side) and an opportunity (winning her over with authenticity). With two Golden Buzzers at her disposal, she could be the key to your shot at the live shows and the $1 million prize.
Join the AGT Conversation!
Mel B’s bold judging style is already shaping AGT Season 20 into a thrilling season. Watch new episodes every Tuesday at 8/7c on NBC, streaming the next day on Peacock, to see her in action. Do you think Mel B is too harsh, or is her tough love just what AGT needs? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know what you think of her return!
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Sources: NBC, GoldDerby, Talent Recap, X posts from @TheWrap, @AGTCommenter.