When "America's Got Talent" creator Simon Cowell had to find a big name to replace departing judge Howard Stern, he didn't have to look far — he's hiring himself!

Cowell announced on the "Today" show that he'll join season 11 as a judge. He'll still serve as executive producer of the show he created.

"I am really thrilled to be joining 'America's Got Talent' next season," said Cowell. "What I love about this show is that it's open to absolutely anyone. America has some fantastic talent just waiting to be discovered, and I would like that talent to come to our show, including any dogs who can sing!"

Cowell already serves as a judge on "Britain's Got Talent" and the U.K.'s "X Factor," but he hasn't been a judge on an American reality series since his time on "American Idol" (which is ending this season). He's used those shows to find and sign talent, including One Direction, Fifth Harmony, and Susan Boyle.

While he expects "AGT" to move to L.A., he's not sure which of the show's current judges — Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, and Mel B — will come along for the ride. Nick Cannon is the host.

"They might decide since I've come back, they'll run for the hills," he joked to USA Today. "I have no idea. I know them all. I think they've done a great job. ... I thought we'd let the dust settle and then we'll meet everyone who's on the show and then we'll make some decisions."

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