Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo are set to join Nigel Lythgoe at the judges’ table on Fox’s summer series “So You Think You Can Dance.”
British star Cat Deeley is returning as host for the reality show’s Season 12, which will feature a new twist: pitting stage dancers against street dancers.
The latest announcement comes after Mary Murphy was released from her “SYTYCD” Fox contract on Jan. 12 following 11 seasons on the show.
“I have dedicated a large part of my career as a choreographer to discovering and mentoring some of the most iconic artists and performers from all over the world,” said former “American Idol” judge Abdul. “‘So You Think You Can Dance’ has a long-standing history of launching brilliant careers for young choreographers and dancers in the industry. It’s going to be a true honor and pleasure joining this panel with Jason and Nigel, and I’m looking forward to an exciting new season!”
“I am truly excited, and eagerly look forward to joining the cast of ‘So You Think You Can Dance,’” added Derulo. “It is one of the most respected and longest-tenured shows on network television, and I hope to be a part of new growth and continued success.”
Executive producer and fellow judge Lythgoe said: “With the new and exciting format comes a new and exciting panel of judges. I’m delighted that Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo will be joining me at the judges’ table this season on ‘So You Think You Can Dance.’ Paula is an incredible artist and she brings the perfect combination of expertise and heart to the panel. Jason’s insight, humor and creativity will add a new perspective to the panel that we haven’t had before.”
The perennial Emmy nominee and 13-time winner was created by Simon Fuller and Lythgoe and is from 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group, and Dick Clark Productions. The series is executive-produced by Fuller, Lythgoe, Allen Shapiro, Barry Adelman, James Breen and Jeff Thacker.
Auditions for the new season start in New York City (Saturday, Jan. 24); Dallas (Saturday, Feb. 14); Detroit (Sunday, Feb. 22); Memphis (Sunday, March 8); and Los Angeles (Sunday, March 15).