Nigel Lythgoe is within the crosshairs of an investigation by the studio that produces his long-running present “So You Suppose You Can Dance” … along with his job probably hanging within the steadiness.
Sources with direct information inform TMZ … the embattled EP of the hit actuality competitors present is on the middle of an inside probe being carried out by Sony Photos Tv — which co-produces ‘SYTYCD’ beneath its subsidiary 19 Leisure, alongside Dick Clark Productions.
We’re advised Sony’s trying into current claims of sexual assault and harassment made towards Nigel — who created ‘So You Suppose’ with Simon Fuller, and has served as an government producer since its inception, to not point out a constant decide till he stepped away in ’22.
After all, what Sony’s investigating right here is Paula Abdul‘s allegations — which she made in an explosive lawsuit … claiming she’d been sexually assaulted by Lythgoe twice, as soon as within the early 2000s throughout her ‘Idol’ stint and once more within the 2010s whereas she judged on ‘SYTYCD.’
Bear in mind, because it pertains to the latter allegation — which is what Sony’s involved with right here — she alleged Lythgoe invited her to his pad to debate work alternatives … solely to allegedly pounce on her in an try and kiss her. PA additionally claimed Lythgoe groped one among her assistants throughout her time on the dance present.
Lythgoe denies Paula’s claims, saying they’re “deeply offensive” to every part he stands for and completely false.
Our sources say that whereas Sony digs into this matter, no choice has been made on whether or not Nigel shall be allowed to remain on as an EP. It additionally stays to be seen if he’ll function a decide — this regardless of the actual fact he was introduced to return to his chair final month for Season 18 … which can begin airing in March. He wasn’t a decide throughout this previous season.
In all probability value noting … Paula named 19 Leisure as a defendant in her go well with too — alleging sexual assault and battery, sexual harassment, gender violence and negligence.
