Paula Abdul, the renowned American singer and former judge of reality show competitions, has recently come forward with serious allegations against Nigel Lythgoe, the executive producer of “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance.” In a lawsuit filed on Friday, Abdul claims that she was sexually assaulted by Lythgoe not once, but twice.
A Shocking Revelation
According to the lawsuit, Abdul alleges that during one of the early seasons of “American Idol,” Lythgoe sexually assaulted her in an elevator. She details the horrific encounter, stating that he forcefully pushed her against a wall, groped her breasts and genitals, and forcibly kissed her. Disturbed and frightened, Abdul pushed him away and quickly retreated to her room as soon as the elevator doors opened.
A Second Disturbing Incident
Years later, when Abdul was a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance,” Lythgoe invited her to his home for dinner under the guise of a professional meeting. However, things took a sinister turn, as Lythgoe allegedly forced himself on top of Abdul while she was sitting on his couch. He attempted to kiss her and suggested they become a “power couple.” Again, Abdul managed to push him away and escaped from his home, overwhelmed by fear and disgust.
Allegations of Harassment and Unequal Treatment
In addition to the two sexual assault incidents, Abdul’s lawsuit also accuses Lythgoe of verbal harassment and bullying. She further claims that she experienced discrimination and was consistently paid less than her male counterparts on “American Idol.” Abdul asserts that the show’s editing was intentionally misleading and designed to portray her as incompetent.
The Powerful Silence Broken
Abdul’s silence regarding these traumatic experiences has lasted for years, primarily due to her fear of speaking out against one of the industry’s most prominent television producers. The lawsuit emphasizes the power dynamics at play and the pattern of protecting powerful men while silencing survivors of sexual assault and harassment.
Seeking Justice and Accountability
Through her legal action, Abdul aims to hold Lythgoe accountable for his alleged actions and shed light on the negligence of the companies involved, including 19 Entertainment, FremantleMedia North America, American Idol Productions, and Dance Nation Productions. The lawsuit asserts that these companies failed to take appropriate disciplinary measures against Lythgoe, thereby protecting him from accountability.
This lawsuit comes as a part of Abdul’s efforts to make her voice heard during the one-year window created by California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act. This legislation allows the filing of sexual abuse lawsuits that would have otherwise surpassed the statute of limitations. Abdul’s brave act seeks justice and aims to prevent others from suffering in silence.
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Source: Variety