A decade later, during a supposed professional meeting at Lythgoe’s Los Angeles home, Abdul alleges another assault. She asserts that he made inappropriate advances, proclaiming they would make an “excellent power couple.” Her response, as detailed in reports, involved pushing him away and firmly rejecting his advances.
Paula Abdul Sues Nigel Lythgoe : Disturbing On-Set Incident
Adding to the perplexity, Abdul claims to have witnessed Lythgoe assaulting one of his assistants during the filming of So You Think You Can Dance in Las Vegas in the same year as the second alleged assault.
Paula Abdul Sues Nigel Lythgoe :Taunts and Silence
The lawsuit further alleges that Lythgoe taunted Abdul by calling her, suggesting they celebrate because the statute of limitations had run out. Sources reveal that Abdul had maintained silence for years, fearing the repercussions of speaking out against a prominent figure in the television industry.
Legal Action Under New Legislation
Paula Abdul’s courageous legal action comes under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, which, having come into effect a year ago, temporarily lifts the statute of limitations in sexual assault cases. Survivors can file civil claims in the state until January 2026 for crimes occurring on or after January 1, 2009.
Industry Shockwaves
The accused, Nigel Lythgoe, an executive producer of American Idol and co-judge on So You Think You Can Dance, has not publicly commented on the allegations. The BBC has reached out to Lythgoe’s representatives for a response.
