What does the winner of 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18 get? Dancers to compete for hefty cash prize
ATLANTA, GEORGIA: 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18 is scheduled to premiere on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 9 pm ET only on Fox.
In the show's latest installment, contestants will be seen going head-to-head against each other for a staggering cash prize of $100k.
For the unversed, 'So You Think You Can Dance' is a dance show that features dancers from different genres competing in open auditions held in major cities across the United States.
After passing additional auditions, a small number of dancers are selected to represent themselves on the prestigious stage.
The dancers have the freedom to showcase their talent either individually, in pairs, or even as part of a larger group, and they are given a wide range of genres to choose from.
As the competition progresses and becomes more intense, the panel of judges, as well as the audience play a crucial role in determining which contestants advance to the final round.
'So You Think You Can Dance' made its debut on July 20, 2005, captivating audiences and captivating a global audience with its unique brand of entertainment.
Since its inception, it has garnered immense popularity and has successfully been adopted in 41 countries, showcasing the universal appeal of its mesmerizing dance routines.
Its enduring success is evident in its consistently high ratings, which have been maintained for over 9 years, spanning an impressive 17 seasons filled with awe-inspiring performances and talented dancers.
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What is the format of 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18?
The upcoming Season 18 of 'So You Think You Can Dance' will introduce a new format that takes viewers on an immersive journey into the lives of the contestants.
Departing from the traditional approach of solely showcasing their dance performances, the show will now delve into the personal stories and experiences of the dancers, presenting their lives in a captivating documentary-style narrative.
Through this innovative approach, viewers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics that unfold behind the scenes, as the camera delves into the contestant's daily challenges, budding connections, and clashes of personalities.
This groundbreaking change promises to provide viewers with a more intimate and holistic perspective of the competitors, allowing them to form deeper connections and truly appreciate the journey each dancer undertakes.
In the forthcoming season, viewers can once again anticipate an array of thrilling weekly dancing challenges that have been specifically crafted to emulate the real-life experiences encountered by accomplished dancers.
These captivating challenges encompass an extraordinary range of opportunities, such as showcasing one's dance prowess during the halftime performance of a high-stakes football game, engaging in a head-to-head competition with a seasoned Broadway artist, and even securing a chance to star in a mesmerizing music video.
Who are the judges for 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18?
The main judges for season 18 of 'So You Think You Can Dance' are Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Allison Holker, and JoJo Siwa stepping in for Nigel Lythgoe.
Chmerkovskiy, known for his time on 'Dancing With the Stars', brings his expertise in ballroom dancing to the panel. Holker, a former contestant and All-Star on the show, provides insight from her experience as a professional dancer.
On the other hand, when we talk about Siwa, a popular internet personality and dancer, brings a fresh perspective to the judging table.
These three judges will critique and provide feedback to the talented dancers competing in the reality series.
Why did Nigel Lythgoe leave 'So You Think You Can Dance'?
Earlier this year in January, Nigel Lythgoe announced that he would be leaving the show 'So You Think You Can Dance.' The news of his departure came after two lawsuits that accused him of sexual assault.
Lythgoe has been accused of engaging in inappropriate behavior towards Paula Abdul, including groping and forcibly kissing her in an elevator approximately two decades ago.
Additionally, in a separate legal case, two contestants from the show 'All American Girl' have come forward with allegations that Lythgoe attempted to forcibly kiss them following a wrap party in 2003, as per Variety.
These disturbing accusations shed light on a pattern of misconduct and raise concerns about the behavior of individuals in positions of power within the entertainment industry.
“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 told the media outlet.
The longtime judge of the dance show further added, "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,” he stated.
'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18 premieres March 4, 2024, at 9 pm ET on Fox.