AMERICA’S Got Talent’s newest judge, Mel B, does ‘not speak’ or even ‘make eye contact’ with co-star Sofia Vergara off-camera, an insider exclusively told The U.S. Sun.
The pair of panelists appear friendly when cameras are rolling however, when they aren’t being filmed, there is a noticeable “icy” difference in their behavior toward each other.
Mel B, 49, returned to AGT after previously judging the show from 2013 to 2018 and replaced Heidi Klum for the upcoming 20th season.
The Spice Girl joins Modern Family star Sofia, 52, as well as Howie Mandel, 69, and of course, Simon Cowell, 65.
While Mel appeared to get along with everybody when cameras were rolling, the vibe shifted behind the scenes, according to a production source.
During tapings of auditions which took place over three weeks in March, “Mel barely acknowledged Sofia when they weren’t recording,” the source claimed.
The insider added: “Mel spent most of the time talking to Howie who she was sat right next to or even got up to talk to Simon.
“But even though Sofia was right on the other side of her, they barely spoke or even made eye contact when the cameras went down.
“Mel would even get up and walk around to go talk to Simon or lean back and talk to him over Sofia but barely spoke or made eye contact with Sofia.
“She seemed to get along well with Simon and Howie off camera. And she got along with Sofia when cameras were on but when they were off, very icy vibes.”
The duo appear to hit it off to the general audience as they banter with each other during filming – and even frequently post together on social media.
Just yesterday, Sofia shared a selfie with the British pop star and captioned the photo: “We r almost done with auditions!”
Despite their friendly on-camera demeanor, the source claimed their friendship does not appear to translate when filming stops.
However, the insider added that there appears to be “no animosity” between Mel B and Howie or Simon.
Sofia Vergara breaks down in tears after Stephanie Rainey’s performance
Mel B worked with Howie and Simon on AGT as co-judges from Season 8 to Season 13.
During those seasons – which also saw Howard Stern’s brief run as judge – Heidi Klum was by Mel B’s side as Sofia didn’t join the show until 2020 when her hit show Modern Family came to an end.
Heidi originally judged the talent competition from seasons 8 through 13.
The German top model took a hiatus for season 14 but returned to the NBC show for a four-year stint for seasons 15 to 19.
‘TWO MINUTES CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE’
Announcing the monumental impact of the show’s 20th season, judge and show executive producer Simon gushed: “It is absolutely brilliant to be able to announce this year as our 20th season.
“Over the years, we have seen some amazing acts and met some truly incredible people.
“It’s true that two or three minutes can change your life.
“I want to thank every contestant, all the fans who have supported the show every year and to NBC for believing in this show.
“And of course, the amazing team, past and present, who make the show so special.
“Now as always, I am really excited to meet the contestants this year.”
AGT season 20 premieres on Tuesday, May 27th at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
