Paula Abdul, a former judge on ‘American Idol’ and “So You Think You Can Dance,” has filed a lawsuit against Nigel Lythgoe, one of the executive producers of the shows, alleging multiple instances of sexual assault and harassment.
Key Takeaway
Paula Abdul has filed a lawsuit against Nigel Lythgoe, alleging multiple instances of sexual assault and harassment during her time on ‘American Idol’ and ‘So You Think You Can Dance.’ She has cited assault, harassment, and discrimination in her legal action against the executive producer and the production companies involved.
Allegations of Assault
In the lawsuit filed in L.A. County, Paula Abdul claims that the first assault took place during one of the early seasons of ‘American Idol’ while they were on the road for regional auditions. She alleges that Lythgoe assaulted her in an elevator at their hotel, forcefully grabbing her genitals and breasts and attempting to kiss her.
The second alleged encounter occurred after she signed a new contract in 2015 to be a judge on ‘So You Think You Can Dance,’ which was also executive produced by Lythgoe. Paula states that during a meeting at Lythgoe’s house to discuss work opportunities, he allegedly forced himself on top of her and attempted to kiss her, despite her objections.
Legal Action and Allegations of Harassment
Paula Abdul has also accused Lythgoe of harassment and discrimination in terms of compensation during her time as a judge on ‘American Idol.’ She has filed the lawsuit citing sexual assault and battery, sexual harassment, gender violence, and negligence against Lythgoe, 19 Entertainment, and FremantleMedia North America.
Statute of Limitations and California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act
Abdul has chosen to come forward at this time due to California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act, which provides a window for plaintiffs to file claims that would otherwise be barred by the statute of limitations.
