Nigel Lythgoe, an executive producer and judge on “So You Think You Can Dance,” is stepping down from his judging role following two sexual assault lawsuits against him. The accusations involve an incident about 20 years ago, where Lythgoe is alleged to have groped and forcibly kissed Paula Abdul in an elevator. A second lawsuit claims that two contestants on “All American Girl” accused him of attempting to forcibly kiss them after a wrap party in 2003.
In a statement to Variety, Lythgoe mentioned, “I have informed the producers of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ of my decision to step back from participating in this year’s series. I did so with a heavy heart but entirely voluntarily because this great program has always been about dance and dancers, and that’s where its focus needs to remain. In the meantime, I am dedicating myself to clearing my name and restoring my reputation.”
Lythgoe, 74, has been a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance” since it began in 2005. The 18th season is due to premiere on Fox on March 4. Allison Holker and Maksim Chmerkovskiy have also been announced as judges on the upcoming season.
Following the sexual assault allegations against Nigel Lythgoe, co-producer of “So You Think You Can Dance,” Sony Pictures Television’s 19 Entertainment has initiated an investigation, as reported by a source to Variety. an executive producer
In response to Lythgoe stepping down, Fox, 19 Entertainment, and Dick Clark Productions released a joint statement affirming that the upcoming season of the show will continue, albeit without Nigel Lythgoe. The statement emphasizes their commitment to the contestants who have dedicated significant effort to compete on the show, and they aim to ensure that the program remains focused on the participants and their journey on the stage.