Source: Nigel Lythgoe may return to 'Idol'

[July 28, 2010]  LOS ANGELES (AP) -- A familiar face may be on the verge of returning to "American Idol."

According to a person close to the show, "So You Think You Can Dance" judge Nigel Lythgoe is in talks to come back to Fox's "American Idol" next season in the producing role he left two years ago. The person, who was not authorized to discuss the talks publicly, spoke Tuesday on condition of anonymity.

The person said Lythgoe would return as a member of the "Idol" executive producing team to represent CKx Inc., the holding company of 19 Entertainment, co-producer of "American Idol."

Fox declined comment on Lythgoe's possible return or whether his judging role on "So You Think You Can Dance," which airs on Fox, would be affected. Lythgoe is co-creator and an executive producer of the dance contest.

A spokesman for Lythgoe declined comment.

[Associated Press; By LYNN ELBER]

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