Sofia Vergara Named First Latin Judge on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent”

Sofia Vergara’s got talent… and a new job…

The 47-year-old Colombian actress and Modern Family star has been added to the judges panel of  NBC’s America’s Got Talent.

Sofia Vergara

Vergara, a four-time Emmy nominee, will appear alongside Heidi Klum, who was a judge on AGTfor six seasons, from 2013-2018. 

They’ll be joined by returning judges Simon CowellAGTs creator and executive producer, and Howie Mandel, as well as host Terry Crews.

“I’m so happy to join my new family onAGT,” said Vergara, who’ll be making AGThistory. “This is a new and exciting next chapter for me and I’m extremely proud to be the first Latin judge on the show. I can’t wait to watch all the talent and have fun with all you guys!”

Vergara and Klum succeed Gabrielle Union and Julianne Hough, who were let go in November after one season on AGT. Union’s ouster sparked controversy and triggered an investigation over allegations of a hostile work environment on the reality show. Results of the investigation, which was supposed to wrap by the end of January, have yet to be made public.

Shortly after Union and Hough’s exit, Vergara emerged as NBC’s top choice for a replacement. She met with executives from NBC and AGTproducer Fremantlein mid-December to discuss the possibility. By mid-January, word started getting out that Klum would be back, retaking her seat.

Klum never left the AGTfranchise — she’s been a judge on spinoff America’s Got Talent: The Champions since its launch last season.

Vergara is coming off an 11-season run as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on ABC’s hit comedy Modern Family,a role that has earned her four Emmy nominations.

“Sofia’s infectious energy and sharp wit will blend perfectly with returning favorites Heidi, Simon, Howie, and Terry. As both a respected actress and successful entrepreneur, she embodies the American dream that is synonymous with AGT’s transformative stage,” said Meredith Ahr, President, Alternative & Reality Group, NBC Entertainment.