Nigel Lythgoe steps down from 'So You Think You Can Dance' after Paula Abdul's lawsuit

TV executive, Nigel Lythgoe won’t be part of this year’s edition of “So You Think You Can Dance” as he has stepped down from his role following the sexual assault allegation levelled against him by singer Paula Abdul.

Announcing that he has stepped down from his role in the TV show, Nigel said in a statement; 

“I have informed the producers of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ of my decision to step back from participating in this year’s series. 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.”

Abdul had filed a lawsuit against Nigel last week claiming she’d been sexually assaulted by him on at least two occasions when she was a judge on “American Idol” and again while she worked on ‘SYTYCD.’

During the ‘Idol’ incident, she said Nigel grabbed her breasts and genitals while trying to kiss her in an elevator. Paula claimed Nigel also tried to force himself on her during “SYTYCD.”

For his part, Nigel has denied Paula’s allegations, calling them, “false and deeply offensive.”