HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — The top show on television is taking a hit.
Nigel Lythgoe is walking away from his executive producer duties for "American Idol" after seven seasons, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"Due to the huge success of 'So You Think You Can Dance,' my summer will be taken up by travels to South Africa, Australia and Canada to work on local versions of the show," Lythgoe said in a statement released Monday. "I will step back from my day-to-day producing work on 'American Idol' and will be devoting my time to a new venture with Simon Fuller."
Despite taking a ratings hit last year, "Idol" continues to outlast the competition. Still, many have speculated that the show has seen its brightest days and that it could be time for a change.
"I've worked with Nigel for over ten years, and he is the best producer I have ever worked with. We are a great team and have shared phenomenal success," Fuller, the show's controversial judge, told the trade publication.
"Idol's" production company, 19 Entertainment, denied rumors that Lythgoe was also planning to leave the company, in which serves as president. Fuller told the Reporter that he and Lythgoe have several opportunities in the works.
"Under our stewardship, 19 has grown into a formidable force and we are now looking at developing a number of shows through a new joint venture," he said.
Lythgoe's work on "Dance" was recently extended, after the hit summer series was renewed for a fifth season.
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