Paula Abdul and Nigel Lythgoe have reached a settlement in a sexual assault lawsuit filed by the singer against the British television producer. The case, which spanned a year, has been resolved unconditionally, according to Los Angeles Superior Court filings.
Table of Contents
- Allegations Spanning Two Decades
- Lythgoe Denies Allegations
- Relief Following the Settlement
- A Lesson in Power Dynamics
- Seeking Support
Allegations Spanning Two Decades
Abdul, 62, first filed the lawsuit in December 2023, accusing Lythgoe, 75, of sexually assaulting her on two separate occasions. The first alleged incident occurred in 2002 during the early seasons of American Idol. Abdul claimed Lythgoe forcibly kissed and groped her in a hotel elevator after a day of auditions.
The second alleged assault took place in 2012 while Abdul was a judge on So You Think You Can Dance. She alleged that Lythgoe forced himself on her at his Los Angeles home after a work dinner. In October 2024, Abdul amended her complaint to include a third incident involving both her and her assistant in 2015.
Lythgoe Denies Allegations
Lythgoe vehemently denied all accusations, calling them “an appalling smear.” His legal team argued that Abdul’s claims were inconsistent and vague, presenting text messages between the two as evidence of a friendly and jovial relationship. Lythgoe’s filings stated it was “unthinkable” that Abdul would maintain such a dynamic if her allegations were true.
Abdul’s team dismissed Lythgoe’s defense as “classic victim shaming,” asserting that her behavior reflected the power dynamics at play. “Mr. Lythgoe held significant control over Ms. Abdul’s career, and this is a common defense mechanism used by women facing such situations,” said her attorney Melissa Eubanks.
Relief Following the Settlement
The settlement, finalized earlier this week, brings the legal battle to a close. While the terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, both parties expressed relief.
“This has been a long and hard-fought personal battle,” Abdul said in a statement. “I am grateful that this chapter has successfully come to a close and is now something I can put behind me. I hope my experience inspires other women facing similar struggles to overcome their challenges with dignity and respect, and to turn the page to new chapters in their lives.”
Lythgoe also expressed his satisfaction with the resolution. “We live in a troubling time where a person is now automatically assumed to be guilty until proven innocent, a process that can take years. That is why, like Paula, I am glad to put this behind me. I know the truth, and that gives me great comfort,” he said.
A Lesson in Power Dynamics
Abdul’s legal team highlighted the broader implications of the case, emphasizing the abuse of power in professional relationships. “He held the cards to Ms. Abdul’s career, and this lawsuit serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by victims navigating such dynamics,” Eubanks said.
The case, which was initially scheduled for trial in August 2025, will now be dismissed following the court’s approval of the settlement.
Seeking Support
Abdul expressed her hope that her experience would encourage others to come forward. “I hope my journey inspires other women to face their struggles and find the strength to move forward,” she said.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org.
A passionate content creator specializing in viral trends, fashion, beauty, and news. With a keen eye for the latest in style and pop culture, Dilshan Senarath delivers fresh, engaging insights that keep audiences informed and inspired. Expertise in curating viral stories with style and impact.
