Simon Cowell believes America’s Got Talent needs to ‘cut back’ on payments

Simon Cowell of America's Got Talent cannot pay big cheques to hosts after Liam Payne's death.

A source spilled to RadarOnline.com, “The future of the show is in turmoil and the brutal bottom line is that they don't have the budget they used to have to afford these people.”

Executive producer and head Judge Simon opened up in a recent interview he hasn't renewed his celebrity co-stars' multimillion-dollar contracts.

“Simon is very clear the audiences tune in to see the acts, not the judges,” said a production insider.

The source told the outlet, “It's very possible he could shake things up and hire all new players to sit at the table with him!”

“The show needs to cut back, so no one is getting the royal treatment anymore,” stated an insider.

The source further said, “What's really concerning is Heidi, Sofía and Howie won't come cheap, and the powers that be may have to bring on C-list talent if they can't make a deal!”

“Simon is a businessman first,” shared an insider.

The source noted, “Simon will keep the show on the air, but he's also a pragmatist. He knows he needs to make a profit for the network and for himself, so he'll make cuts if needed.”

“Everyone from producers to the lowliest production assistants are worried and hoping Simon can work his magic and find the money they deserve,” added an insider.