While the courts say that a person is innocent until PROVEN guilty; in today’s society, a person is deemed guilty with nothing more than an accusation; especially if that person is a celebrity.
The latest celeb facing accusations of assault is producer and judge Nigel Lythgoe.
Now facing multiple lawsuits of sexual assault, Lythgoe has announced that he is backing away from his show “So You Think You Can Dance” until the legal issues have been resolved.
The competition reality dance show is set to return in March but Lythgoe will not be among the judges. He is also a co-creator and executive producer of the show. Speaking on that departure, Lythgoe said, “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 calls the accusations an “appalling smear” and something he intends to fight.
The 74 year old British born Lythgoe is a former dancer and has also worked on “American Idol”.
Among those charging Lythgoe with sexual assault is “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance” alum Paula Abdul who claims that Lythgoe assaulter her twice – once when she was on each show. She filed the suit on December 30, 2023
Feature photo credit: Nigel Lythgoe with his dance group