In a shocking turn of events, former American Idol judge and 80s music superstar Paula Abdul has filed a lawsuit accusing former American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance producer Nigel Lithgow of allegedly assaulting her multiple times. The lawsuit, filed on Friday in LA County Superior Court, reveals disturbing details of the alleged incidents.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Abdul claims that she kept quiet about the assaults for years due to concerns of retaliation and potential fines. In the lawsuit, Abdul accuses Lithgow of sexually assaulting her in an elevator while they were on their way to American Idol auditions. The suit further alleges that Lithgow shoved Abdul against a wall, touched her inappropriately, and forcibly kissed her.
But the allegations don't stop there. Abdul also claims that a second assault occurred in 2015 at Lithgow's home when she was working as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance. According to Abdul's account, Lithgow allegedly pushed her onto a couch and attempted to kiss her against her will.
TMZ reports that Abdul is seeking legal action against Lithgow, as well as production companies 19 Entertainment and Fremantle Media North America. The lawsuit includes charges of sexual assault, battery, and sexual harassment. Additionally, Abdul is seeking damages for gender violence and citing unfair compensation and benefits compared to her male counterpart on American Idol.
The suit was reportedly filed under the California Sexual Abuse and Accountability Act, which allows for legal action to be taken even if the statute of limitations has expired. This crucial legislation provides a pathway to justice for survivors of sexual assault who may have previously been unable to seek legal recourse.
As this lawsuit unfolds, the entertainment industry is once again forced to confront the issue of sexual misconduct and abuse of power. Abdul's courage in coming forward may inspire others to do the same and shed light on a pervasive issue that has plagued the industry for far too long.
Both Abdul and Lithgow have yet to respond to the allegations publicly. The outcome of this case remains uncertain, but it serves as a reminder that the voices of survivors should always be heard, and justice should be pursued relentlessly, no matter how much time has passed.
