Paula Abdul, a Grammy-winning singer and television star, has faced serious allegations of sexual assault against a contest producer associated with the television show American Idol, according to a lawsuit filed in California. The case highlights claims that Abdul was subjected to misconduct linked to her involvement with the show in its earlier days.
Abdul’s debut album Your Girl Forever, released in 1988, is noted for its historic success. In the lawsuit, Abdul accuses Nigel Lythgoe, a longtime producer and judge on American Idol as well as on the dance program So You Think You Can Dance, of sexual assault. The allegations have been reported by various media outlets, with Lythgoe denying them.
victim of discrimination
The singer, now aged 61, asserts in her filing that she endured harassment by Lythgoe and other executives and directors connected to American Idol, during the period she served as a judge on the program. The filing alleges ongoing discrimination related to salary, as well as persistent ridicule, intimidation, humiliation, and harassment by key executives, agents, and employees over the span of several years from 2002 to 2009.
The most serious accusations center on Nigel Lythgoe, who is now 74. The suit claims that Abdul remained silent about Lythgoe’s sexual harassment for fear of damaging her career on one of television’s most recognizable game shows. It quotes the plaintiff as saying the fear of retaliation could have stifled her voice. Lythgoe has responded by stating he was shocked and saddened by the allegations, a sentiment he expressed in an interview with NPR.