Nigel Lythgoe is leaving ‘SYTYCD’ and not returning as Judge of Season 17

against all enemies, If you think you can dance He’ll be back for season 17…but he’ll do it without a co-creator Nigel Letgo In the judges’ stand.

at Tweet on FridayLythgoe, who has served as a judge on every season of the Fox series to date, claimed he was not invited to fill the role on the recently announced 17th edition of the show.

“I am thrilled that this young, ambitious American dance talent will be working with some of our greatest creative choreographers,” the newspaper wrote. “On a sad note on a personal level, I was not asked to be on the jury this season. I don’t know who would say ‘Cue Music’ but I wish them well.”

Fox did not immediately respond to TVLine’s request for comment.

Although other dance professionals—including ballroom specialist Mary Murphy, choreographer Mia Michaels and industry veterinarian Paula Abdul—have all sat at the judges’ table for several seasons, Lythgoe is the only one to judge each season. SYTYCD. When season 17 It was confirmed earlier this weekit remained unclear whether any Familiar faces from previous seasons will return as judges, and host Cat Daily has not long confirmed her return as director.

In June 2020, Fox Suddenly pull the plug in season 17, citing concerns about COVID. Production in season 17 of SYTYCD It will not go ahead due to health and government restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” a Fox representative said at the time. “As a result, as we look forward to his return this summer, we cannot meet the standards we set for viewers and contestants given the show’s unique look, and production schedule. complex and limited time.

the offer will, however, will be on Fox’s schedule this summer; The official premiere date is to be announced at a later date.