Nigel Lythgoe Steps Down From ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ After Sexual Assault Accusations
deadline.comNigel Lythgoe is exiting So You Think You Can Dance after a number of sexual assault complaints. Lythgoe, the co-creator, lead judge and exec producer of So You Think You Can Dance, is the subject of two sexual misconduct lawsuits, including one filed by Paula Abdul who accused him of assaulting her twice over the past 20 years. “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,” Lythgoe said. “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.” The move also comes a few days after it emerged that Lythgoe is the subject of an investigation by Sony Pictures Television’s 19 Entertainment, which co-produces SYTYCD with Dick Clark Productions.
19 Entertainment, Dick Clark Productions, and Fox confirmed the upcoming season of So You Think You Can Dance will proceed, “although without Nigel Lythgoe to ensure the show remains committed to the contestants, who have worked incredibly hard for the opportunity to compete on our stage.
No decision has been made as to a replacement judge for this season, which will premiere on Fox on Monday, March 4,” per those three companies.
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