JoJo Siwa is making a comeback to “So You Think You Can Dance” as a judge for the show’s revamped Season 18. This follows Nigel Lythgoe’s departure from the show following accusations of sexual assault. Siwa had previously served as a judge in Season 17 back in 2022.
A New Judging Panel
Joining choreographer Allison Holker and pro dancer Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Siwa will lend her expertise to the show’s judging panel. The dance competition series, hosted by presenter and author Cat Deeley, is set to premiere its 18th season on Monday, March 4 at 9 p.m. ET on Fox.
A Multitalented Performer
Siwa, known for her skills in dance, singing, and acting, has a massive following of over 70 million fans on social media. In 2020, she was recognized by Time magazine as one of the “100 Most Influential People.” Siwa released her debut EP in 2018 and is currently working on a follow-up in the studio. Recently, she appeared on Fox as a participant on Season 2 of “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test.” Siwa also made history on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” as part of the show’s first same-sex couple in Season 30.
The New Season and Exciting Changes
“SYTYCD” Season 18 will continue to showcase contestants competing in dance challenges, with weekly eliminations leading to the ultimate grand prize of $100,000. This season, viewers can also expect new documentary-style chronicles that delve into the contestants’ journey.
A Shuffle of Judges
This isn’t the first time judges have been replaced mid-production for “So You Think You Can Dance.” In the previous season, Leah Remini came in as a replacement for Matthew Morrison, who violated “competition production protocols” by sending private messages to a contestant. In the current case, executive producer Nigel Lythgoe, who has been a judge on the show since its inception in 2005, left the show after an investigation was launched by Sony Pictures Television’s 19 Entertainment, which co-produces “So You Think You Can Dance.” The investigation was prompted by lawsuits against Lythgoe.
The Allegations
Paula Abdul accused Lythgoe of groping and forcibly kissing her in an elevator about two decades ago in one lawsuit. In a separate lawsuit, two contestants from “All American Girl” alleged that Lythgoe attempted to forcibly kiss them after a wrap party in 2003.
Despite the changes and controversy, the upcoming season of “So You Think You Can Dance” will proceed to support and showcase the incredible talent of the contestants.
To read more about this news, visit F5 Magazine.
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