Nigel Lythgoe departs 'So You Think You Can Dance' amid sexual assault allegations

Nigel Lythgoe arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of "Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind" at the TCL Chinese Theatre on Wednesday, June 27, 2018. TV producer Nigel Lythgoe said Friday, Jan. 5, 2024 that he is stepping aside as a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance” after lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault, including one from Paula Abdul. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, File)

Nigel Lythgoe announced Friday that he is stepping down from hosting the popular TV show “So You Think You Can Dance.”

The 74-year-old producer and choreographer’s decision comes around a week after his high-profile co-host, TV personality, actor and singer Paula Abdul, filed a sexual assault lawsuit against him.

Lythgoe has denied the allegations.