Paula Abdul and Nigel Lythgoe Reach Settlement in Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Paula Abdul has settled her sexual-assault lawsuit against Nigel Lythgoe, a producer for American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance. The lawsuit, filed in December 2023, accused Lythgoe of multiple assaults, with the case initially set for trial in August 2025. Both parties expressed relief at the settlement, with Abdul hoping her experience inspires others, while Lythgoe maintained his innocence. Lythgoe has faced other allegations, but was recently dismissed from a separate lawsuit related to All American Girl.