‘American Idol’ Producer Nigel Lythgoe Confirms Exit
American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe has confirmed his exit from FOX’s troubled competition.
Reports surfaced last week that Lythgoe and fellow producer Ken Warwick were fired from Idol as the network begins to rethink the formula. Lythgoe and Warwick were heavily involved with getting the show going back in 2002.
The American Idol producer confirmed his departure from the show on Twitter. Although he said the network was looking for new “leadership” after 12 seasons, Nigel Lythgoe stated there was no love lost. The producer is still doing work on FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance.
In addition to Lythgoe’s confirmation, the network also released an official statement on the matter. FOX, Fremantle Media, and 19 Entertainment explained to The Wrap:
“The passion and dedication that Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick brought to ‘American Idol’ guided the show to become a true cultural phenomenon. While we are saddened they will no longer be executive producers on the show, we are grateful for their tremendous contributions and look forward to continuing to work with them on additional projects.”
Several American Idol judges have also confirmed reports regarding their future with the series. Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj recently said they would not return as judges next season. Randy Jackson announced his departure prior to the season finale.
Here are Nigel’s tweets regarding the rumors.
just had 10 days in the Bahamas, rain everyday. I get back to the States and get fired. Sad! Monday we choose our top 20. I’ll smile again.
— Nigel Lythgoe (@dizzyfeet) June 8, 2013
Yes, don’t worry I’m on #SYTYCD. FOX still loves me. It’s not a personal thing they just feel IDOL needs new leadership after 12 Seasons.
— Nigel Lythgoe (@dizzyfeet) June 8, 2013
For the moment, the only two left standing are Ryan Seacrest and Keith Urban. At last check, the country music star had “no idea” if he would return to American Idol next season.
“It was like this before I signed on … so it’s not unusual for the ‘Idol’ folks to be in this place of figuring out what they want to do, then they always pull it together,” Urban previously said.
Are you surprised that American Idol producers Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick won’t be coming back next season?
