why did mel b say that to micah palace tonight

Mel B said to Micah Palace, "You have to be nice to everybody, the crew, the people that dress you, because if not, you’re gonna meet them on the way back down anyway." She intended to share advice she received as a young performer about treating everyone with kindness and respect. However, her comment surprised the judges and audience because Micah Palace had been observed as very polite and sweet to everyone backstage. Simon Cowell defended Micah Palace in response to Mel B's remark, saying that he had personally seen Micah being kind to everyone backstage and called Mel B's comment "out of order." Micah Palace also responded, thanking his mother for raising him to treat others respectfully and apologizing if anyone misunderstood his intentions. The comment was meant as friendly advice from Mel B but caused some controversy during the America's Got Talent season 20 finale on September 23, 2025.