Nigel Lythgoe Faces Second Lawsuit Alleging Sexual Assault and Harassment of Contestants

Recently Paula Abdul sued Nigel Lythgoe for sexual assault and harrasment during the show 'American Idol'. Now the producer has been sued again by contestants.

Harshita Das

Updated on: 3 January 2024 11:51 pm

Nigel Lythgoe

Amidst Paula Abdul's recent lawsuit against Nigel Lythgoe, the veteran TV producer is facing another. Two contestants from the reality competition show "All American Girl," which aired in 2003, allege that Lythgoe sexually assaulted and harassed them during the production of the show.

The lawsuit, filed by the plaintiffs under the pseudonyms Jane Does, claims that Lythgoe, who served as a producer on "All American Girl," engaged in inappropriate behavior. According to the documents obtained by TMZ, the women assert that Lythgoe repeatedly appeared on the set and in dressing rooms while they were in dance costumes, openly swatting and groping their buttocks.

During a party celebrating the end of filming, the plaintiffs allege that Lythgoe insisted one of the women ride with him back to the studio, contrary to the group's plans. The second plaintiff decided to accompany them to protect her fellow contestant. However, they claim Lythgoe took them to his home, where he made unwanted sexual advances on both of them.

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One plaintiff describes Lythgoe lifting her sweater and attempting to kiss her, which she immediately rejected. The other plaintiff alleges that Lythgoe became aggressive, pushing her against a grand piano and forcing himself on her, despite her protests.

The lawsuit, which also names an unnamed production company as a defendant, includes allegations of sexual assault and battery, sexual harassment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligence. The plaintiffs are relying on California's Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act to pursue their claims, even though the statute of limitations has passed.

Paula Abdul filed a lawsuit against Lythgoe last week, accusing him of sexual assault during their collaboration on "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance." Lythgoe vehemently denies Abdul's allegations.

The latest legal action adds another layer of complexity to Lythgoe's legal situation, with the plaintiffs seeking accountability and justice for the alleged misconduct on "All American Girl." Lythgoe has not yet responded to the new lawsuit.