TV producer Nigel Lythgoe is facing a second lawsuit, just days after Paula Abdul filed a similar claim against him. This time, two contestants from the reality competition show “All American Girl,” which aired in 2003, have come forward, accusing Lythgoe of sexual assault and harassment.
RELATED STORIES: ‘American Idol’ Producer Nigel Lythgoe Denies Paula Abdul’s ‘Deeply Offensive’ Sexual Assault Lawsuit & Alleges She Had A ‘History Of Erratic Behavior’
The women allege that Lythgoe repeatedly groped and made unwanted advances toward them during their time on the show. According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the two contestants, referred to as Jane Does, claim that Lythgoe would frequently appear on set and in their dressing rooms while they were wearing dance costumes. They allege that he openly swatted and groped their buttocks, creating an uncomfortable and inappropriate work environment.
They further stated that Lythgoe organized a party to celebrate after the show’s filming. At the end of the event, they claim that Lythgoe insisted on driving one of the women back to the studio, where the rest of the cast was headed. The second Jane Doe accompanied them to protect her fellow contestant. However, instead of taking them to the studio, Lythgoe allegedly drove them to his home, where he made sexual advances on both women.
RELATED STORIES: Paula Abdul Sues “American Idol” Executive Producer For Sexual Assault
One of the women alleges that Lythgoe lifted her sweater and attempted to kiss her, which she immediately rejected. The other claims that Lythgoe became aggressive, pushing her against a grand piano and forcibly kissing her despite her protests. The former contestants are suing Lythgoe and an unnamed production company for sexual assault and battery, sexual harassment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligence.
They have chosen to file anonymously, referring to Lythgoe as “John Roe N.L.” and the show as “AAG.” However, sources have confirmed that they refer to Nigel Lythgoe and “All American Girl.” Additionally, they also cited California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, which they believe allows for the revival of their claims, even though the statute of limitations would have otherwise expired.
Paula Abdul has also cited this act in her recent lawsuit against Lythgoe, where she accuses him of sexual assault during their time working together on “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance.” In response to Paula Abdul’s lawsuit, Lythgoe vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “wholly untrue” and stating that they were deeply offensive to him and everything he stands for. There has been no comment from Lythgoe or his representatives regarding the second lawsuit filed by the “All American Girl” contestants.