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'American Idol' report: Nigel Lythgoe locked in as executive producer [Updated]
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UPDATE 11:55 a.m. Aug. 5: FOX has made its official announcement of Lythgoe's return. "'American Idol' became a juggernaut of epic proportions, but to me it was always like home," Lythgoe says in a statement. "I am elated and honored to be rejoining childhood friend and fellow executive producer Ken Warwick and look forward to creating more magic."
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One more piece of the "American Idol" puzzle for next season is apparently in place: Producer Nigel Lythgoe has sealed a deal to return to the show.
Lythgoe, who was an executive producer of FOX's top-rated series for its first seven seasons, will return to "Idol" in the coming season. That's according to the Los Angeles Times, which cites two sources close to the show who say he's returning to executive produce "Idol" with Ken Warwick. The LAT report follows a TMZ bulletin last week saying Lythgoe would return.
A rep for "Idol" producer 19 Entertainment had no comment; Zap2it has also contacted FOX but hadn't received a response as of this posting.
Lythgoe is also an executive producer and judge on "So You Think You Can Dance," and he left "Idol" after the 2008 season in part to concentrate on that show.
Rumors and reports about big changes on "Idol" have swirled ever since judge/face of the show Simon Cowell's departure. One shoe dropped when FOX announced last week that Ellen DeGeneres was leaving the show after one season as a judge. FOX execs told a roomful of reporters Monday (Aug. 2) that no deals were signed for next season, then declined to answer questions about possible scenarios, including Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler becoming judges.
Mass auditions for Season 10 of "Idol" have already begun; taping with the judges -- whomever they might be -- is set to begin in September.
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Good, now confirm Jennifer Lopez......
If they can't confirm her, it means she hasn't signed. If she hasn't signed it probably means she is being a pain in the _______ to negotiate with.
Finally, at least one decision is made. A1 producers are milking this judge thing for all it's worth. Let's hope the end result will be worth all this ballyhoo. So far, they've only succeeded in annoying everyone. Make up your minds, let the public know and decide for themselves if A1 is still relevant. This might loose you more viewers than gaining them. This whole indecision thing is a bore.
proposing Nigel Lythgoe as chief judge for Idol. would like to have a real singer as judge,i.e.steve lawrence,harry conick jr, or guest judges-i.,e. adam lambert-who is very articulate, great singer and great personality.
please not the diva Lopez- suggest edie Gorme?Shirley Bassey?
Michel Legrand? someone who knows music. --even Piers Morgan knows music. thank you.e.roberts