Howie Mandel is replacing David Hasselhoff as one of the judges on NBC's 'America's Got Talent'.
Mandel, who has been host of the network's 'Deal or No Deal', will join Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan at the judges' table for the show's fifth season.
Hasselhoff is leaving 'Talent' to focus on creating his own television program.
"I am proud that I was part of making America's Got Talent, the No. 1 rated show for the past four summers," Hasselhoff tells 'People'.
"It's been a rewarding experience and now I'm thrilled to be able to follow my dream to do my own TV show, which will be announced very shortly."
"I want to thank my friend," he adds, "executive producer Simon Cowell, and everyone at NBC and Fremantle for the opportunity for four great years."
In their own statement, NBC says it doesn't hold a grudge for the departing judge: "David's been an integral part of the success of America’s Got Talent and we are sad to see him go. We wish him all the best with his new show."
Howie Mandel is replacing David Hasselhoff as one of the judges on NBC's 'America's Got Talent'.
