A lawsuit has been launched against Nigel Lythgoe, the show’s executive producer, by Paula Abdul, the well-known singer and former American Idol judge, in an unexpected development. According to the case, which was submitted in Los Angeles County, California, Lythgoe assaulted Abdul sexually twice.
Who is Paula Abdul?
American singer, dancer, choreographer, actor, and television personality Paula Abdul was born on June 19, 1962. She began her work with the Los Angeles Lakers as a cheerleader and eventually rose to the position of chief choreographer.
Abdul rose to prominence with her debut album “Forever Your Girl” and has judged on hit television programs such as So You Think You Can Dance and American Idol.
Who is Nigel Lythgoe?
Nigel Lythgoe, born on July 9, 1949, is an English television and film director, producer, and former dancer. Known for his work on shows like “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance”, he has significantly influenced the landscape of reality television.
The Allegations
Paula alleges that years after the statute of limitations had passed, Nigel was still harassing her and taunting her to celebrate. Court records also show that Paula alleges she was subjected to prejudice in her pay while presiding over Idol.
Abdul alleges that the assaults occurred while she was serving as a judge on two popular television shows, American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance. According to the legal documents, Abdul claims that Lythgoe not only sexually assaulted her but also verbally insulted and belittled her.
- Paula claims there was an incident in 2015 while she was a judge on SYTCD, an executive produced show by Nigel.
- While they were traveling for regional auditions for one of the early seasons of Idol, Paula alleges that Nigel assaulted her for the first time.
- Paula says that after pushing her up against the wall, Nigel grabbed her breasts and genitalia and attempted to kiss her.
- She attempted to shove him away, but she had to keep it quiet for fear that Nigel would fire her in vengeance.
- She claims Nigel often calls them a “power couple,” or a “excellent couple.”
The court case also said that Nigel’s wrong actions included an employee of Paula in 2015. She saw him touching one her worker badly and not properly way.
Conclusion
The court case is a big step in the ongoing talk about safety at work and sexual misconduct in show business. As the legal case goes on, it’s really important to watch what happens in court.
The next steps will probably include an in-depth look into the claims, possible court times and maybe a trial. No matter what happens, this case shows that it’s very important to deal with and stop sexual harassment in all jobs.
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