Television producer Nigel Lythgoe has publicly reiterated his denial of sexual assault allegations made by former colleague Paula Abdul, almost a full year after the pair reached a settlement in their legal dispute.
A Renewed Denial at LAX
In a video captured by TMZ over the weekend, the 76-year-old ‘American Idol’ and ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ producer was questioned about his legacy as he arrived at Los Angeles International Airport. When asked if he needed to rebuild his reputation, Lythgoe was dismissive. "I don't feel as though I might have to rebuild anything. There was an accusation. Wasn't true. What else can you do? You just have to say it wasn't true," he stated.
Pressed on when he would repair his image, Lythgoe added, "I think the people who know the truth. That's important." He also revealed he is currently producing a new movie and a television show, clarifying the latter is not a dance programme but something he has "done in the past."
Background of the Allegations and Settlement
The renewed denial comes just under a year since Abdul, 63, settled her lawsuit against Lythgoe in December 2024. The original legal action, filed in December 2023, contained serious allegations dating back to the early 2000s.
Abdul claimed she was assaulted on two separate occasions. The first alleged incident occurred in the early 2000s during their time on ‘American Idol’, where Abdul accused Lythgoe of groping her in a hotel elevator and forcing a kiss on her. The second allegation stemmed from a dinner at Lythgoe's home in 2015, while both were involved with ‘So You Think You Can Dance’. Abdul claimed he tried to force himself on top of her after making unwanted advances.
In an amended complaint, Abdul later alleged a third incident in 2015, claiming Lythgoe touched her inappropriately after her assistant rejected him. Lythgoe's legal team strongly denied these additional claims, suggesting they "stretched credulity."
Statements Following the Legal Resolution
When the settlement was announced last December, both parties issued statements. Abdul expressed relief, saying, "I am grateful this chapter has successfully come to a close... This has been a long and hard-fought personal battle." She hoped her experience would inspire other women facing similar challenges.
Lythgoe's statement at the time struck a different tone, criticising the court of public opinion. "We live in a troubling time where a person is now automatically assumed to be guilty until proven innocent," he said. He maintained his innocence, adding, "I know the truth and that gives me great comfort," and stated he was happy to put the matter behind him.
Despite the settlement closing the legal chapter, Lythgoe's latest comments indicate the personal and reputational fallout continues. The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for Paula Abdul for further comment following Lythgoe's airport remarks.
