Nigel Lythgoe Denies Paula Abdul sexual assault Accusations: In a high-profile case that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, Nigel Lythgoe, known for his work on “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance,” faces serious allegations from Paula Abdul, the renowned singer and television personality. Abdul has come forward with claims of sexual assault, sparking a legal and public relations battle that has both parties firmly standing their ground.
Claims and Counterclaims: A Detailed Overview
Paula Abdul has initiated a lawsuit against Nigel Lythgoe, accusing him of sexual assault during their time working together on popular television shows. The lawsuit alleges that in an elevator during an early season of “American Idol,” Lythgoe physically assaulted Abdul by pushing her against the wall, groping her, and attempting to forcibly kiss her.
“Lythgoe shoved Abdul against the wall, then grabbed her genitals and breasts, and began shoving his tongue down her throat,” the court documents, which Page Six obtained, state.
“Abdul attempted to push Lythgoe away from her. When the doors to the elevator for her door opened, Abdul ran out of the elevator and to her hotel room. Abdul quickly called one of her representatives in tears to inform them of the assault.”
She describes fleeing the scene in distress, fearing professional retaliation if she spoke out. Abdul also recounts a later incident at Lythgoe’s home.
Toward the end of the evening, Lythgoe forced himself on top of Abdul while she was seated on his couch and attempted to kiss her while proclaiming that the two would make an excellent ‘power couple,’” court documents state. “Abdul pushed Lythgoe off of her, explaining that she was not interested in his advances and immediately left
These claims extend to accusations of Lythgoe groping her assistant while on the set of “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2015.
Read More: Paula Abdul Accuses American Idol Producer Nigel Lythgoe of Sexual Assault
Nigel Lythgoe’s Firm Denial
Nigel Lythgoe has vehemently denied the allegations, expressing shock and sadness at the claims made against him. In a statement, he emphasized over two decades of professional and platonic interaction with Abdul, deeming the allegations not only false but deeply offensive. Lythgoe hints at Abdul’s “history of erratic behavior” and vows to fight what he perceives as a baseless and defamatory lawsuit with all his resources.
The Legal Landscape and Public Reaction
The case unfolds under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, allowing victims to file lawsuits for incidents that would typically be outside the statute of limitations. As the legal proceedings progress, both the public and the industry are keenly observing, with opinions and support divided between the two well-known figures.
A Battle of Narratives
This legal confrontation between Nigel Lythgoe and Paula Abdul is more than just a lawsuit; it’s a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about accountability, power dynamics, and justice in the entertainment industry. As the case proceeds, it will undoubtedly raise questions about celebrity, memory, and the pursuit of truth in the face of serious allegations.
