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Why did Nigel Lythgoe leave 'So You Think You Can Dance'? Fox show judge faces sexual assault allegations

Singer Paula Abdul alleged that 'SYTYCD' judge Nigel Lythgoe assaulted her twice while they were working together

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Longtime judge of 'So You Think You Can Dance', Nigel Lythgoe will not be seen in Season 18 of the Fox show which is set to premiere on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 9 pm ET on Fox.

In January 2024, Lythgoe announced that he was stepping away from the long-running series.

 "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," Nigel said in a statement issued to Variety.

Then, the television producer 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."

He also stated, "In the meantime, I am dedicating myself to clearing my name and restoring my reputation.”

On December 30, 2023, singer Paula Abdul alleged that the dance judge sexually assaulted her twice while they were working together on 'American Idol' in the early 2000s and on 'So You Think You Can Dance' in 2015.

Abdul filed a lawsuit against the defendants, using the Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, which permits civil sexual assault suits even if the time limit for legal action has passed.

She sued Lythgoe for sexual assault/battery, sexual harassment, gender violence, and negligence.

Soon after, Lythgoe shared a statement with TMZ and denied all the claims made against him. He said, “To say that I am shocked and saddened by the allegations made against me by Paula Abdul is a wild understatement."

He further added, "For more than two decades, Paula and I have interacted as dear – and entirely platonic – friends and colleagues. Yesterday, however, out of the blue, I learned of these claims in the press and I want to be clear: not only are they false, but they are deeply offensive to me and to everything I stand for."

Lythgoe also stated, "While Paula’s history of erratic behavior is well known, I can’t pretend to understand exactly why she would file a lawsuit that she must know is untrue. But I can promise that I will fight this appalling smear with everything I have.”

What is Nigel Lythgoe's net worth in 2024?

Nigel Lythgoe who is an English television and film director and producer, television dance competition judge, and former dancer has a net worth of $150 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

He began his career as a dancer on television, then transitioned to choreography and eventually became a successful television producer.

He started out performing with 'The Young Generation' on BBC in England before moving on to work with various celebrities and projects.

After ten years, Lythgoe became a successful producer with popular shows like 'You Bet!' and 'American Idol.' He was also recognized as a pioneer of reality TV in the early 21st century and has been a judge on 'So You Think You Can Dance' in both the US and the UK.

In 2015, Nigel was honored with an Order of The British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II.

Who has replaced Nigel Lythgoe on 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18?

JoJo Siwa will be replacing television producer and judge, Nigel Lythgoe in 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18.

On January 26, 2024, the Reality Club Fox made an exciting revelation via their official Instagram account. This announcement was none other than the highly anticipated return of the talented and charismatic JoJo Siwa to the world of dance reality shows.

It is worth mentioning that she had previously graced the show as a judge during its exhilarating and unforgettable Season 17, which took place in 2022.

"Our new judge is on POINT! 🤩 @itsjojosiwa is returning to #SYTYCD as a judge for Season 18! Don’t miss the season premiere Monday, March 4 on @foxtv and next day on @hulu!" the caption of the post read.

JoJo is set to bring her expertise and enthusiasm to the judging panel alongside esteemed choreographer Alison Holker and accomplished professional dancer Maksim Chmerkovskiy.

Together, this dynamic trio will bring a wealth of experience, talent, and diverse perspectives to evaluate the incredible talent and performances showcased on the show.

With Jojo's vibrant personality, Allison's intricate knowledge of choreography, and Maksim's impressive dance skills, viewers can expect a truly captivating and entertaining judging panel that adds an extra layer of excitement to the already thrilling dance competition.

When will 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18 air?

'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 18 will premiere on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 9 pm ET on Fox.

The TV show features dancers between the ages of 18 and 30 showcasing their skills in various dance styles.

Contestants who make it to the show's studio will receive training from choreographers and compete in different genres each week with new challenges.

The Fox reality series, which ran for 16 seasons until 2019, searched for talented dancers nationwide to learn from famous choreographers and compete in various competitions.

The show has been on hiatus for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. And now, it is back with a brand new season.