Paula Abdul Reaches Settlement in Sexual Assault Lawsuit Against Former American Idol Producer Nigel Lythgoe | Entertainment News
Paula Abdul and former American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe have reached a settlement in a lawsuit that accused him of sexually assaulting the singer while she served as a judge on the show.
The Grammy and Emmy-winning artist filed a notice to resolve her claims in Los Angeles Superior Court on Thursday, expressing her gratitude that “this chapter has successfully come to a close” in a statement.
“This has been a long and difficult personal struggle,” Abdul, 62, stated on Friday.
She added, “I hope my experience can motivate other women facing similar issues to overcome their own obstacles with dignity and respect, enabling them to turn the page and start anew.”
In a contrasting statement, Lythgoe, 75, remarked: “We live in a concerning time where individuals are often presumed guilty until proven innocent, a lengthy process that can take years.”
“That is why, like Paula, I am relieved to leave this behind me. I know the truth, and that brings me great peace.”
The settlement still requires judicial approval. According to court documents reviewed by the Associated Press, the agreement is unconditional, though specific details were not disclosed.
Nigel Lythgoe denied the allegations, referring to them as ‘an appalling smear’. Pic: Reuters
Filed in December of last year, the lawsuit claimed Lythgoe assaulted Abdul on two occasions during their work on various programs.
Abdul alleged that the producer groped her in a hotel elevator after a full day of American Idol auditions in 2002 while she was judging the show.
In 2012, while serving as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance, Abdul claimed that Lythgoe forced himself on her during a dinner at his residence and attempted to kiss her.
Read more from Sky News:
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs accused of raping three men
Fearne Cotton announces split from husband
Lythgoe strongly refuted the allegations, expressing that he was “shocked and saddened” by the accusations, which he labeled as “an appalling smear”.
In January, Lythgoe declared his decision to step down as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance to focus on clearing his name and restoring his reputation.
Lythgoe played a key role in the launch of American Idol in 2002 and also served as a judge on ITV’s Popstars, which produced the band Hear’Say.
Originally hailing from the Wirral but currently residing in Los Angeles, Lythgoe received an OBE in 2015 for his contributions to the performing arts, education, and charity.
A representative for Lythgoe has been contacted for comment.
