US expertise present decide Nigel Lythgoe has introduced he's stepping apart as a decide on So You Think You Can Dance amid lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault.

Among these making allegations in opposition to Lythgoe is Paula Abdul, who claims he groped her breasts and genitals and "began shoving his tongue down her throat" within the early 2000s.

The singer was a decide on American Idol on the time, whereas Lythgoe was a producer on the present.

In an announcement, the 74-year-old Briton confirmed he is not going to be collaborating within the 18th season of So You Think You Can Dance, which is because of start in March.

Describing his choice, he mentioned: "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 has denied the accusations made by Abdul and mentioned he's "shocked and saddened" - describing her as a "dear" and "entirely platonic" buddy.

He added: "While Paula's historical past of erratic behaviour is well-known, I am unable to faux to grasp precisely why she would file a lawsuit that she should know is unfaithful.

"But I can promise that I will fight this appalling smear with everything I have."

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Abdul has additionally alleged {that a} second assault befell in 2015 when she joined So You Think You Can Dance.

She claims Lythgoe pressured himself on her and tried to kiss her throughout a dinner at his Los Angeles residence, however that she pushed him away and left.

Her lawsuit additionally accused Lythgoe of taunting her concerning the alleged assaults, saying to her years later "they should celebrate" as "the statute of limitations had run".

Abdul filed the declare a couple of days earlier than a California regulation expires permitting individuals a one-year window to sue over sexual abuse claims which have exceeded the authorized time restrict.

Lythgoe was a decide on ITV present Popstars - which created the band Hear'Say - and was nicknamed "Nasty Nigel" after making reducing remarks to contestants.