Paula Abdul and Nigel Lythgoe settle sexual assault lawsuit from 'American Idol'

Paula Abdul and former "American Idol" producer Nigel Lythgoe have settled a lawsuit in which Abdul accused Lythgoe of sexual assault during the early 2000s. The settlement was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court and awaits judicial approval. Abdul expressed relief at the settlement, stating it allows her to move on from a difficult chapter in her life. The terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, and Lythgoe's legal team has not commented. The lawsuit, filed nearly a year ago, included allegations of assault during filming for "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance." Lythgoe had previously denied the allegations, calling them an "appalling smear."