Since its premiere on FOX in 2005, So You Think You Can Dance has captivated audiences with its incredible talent and dynamic judging panel. Experts in the dance world have been crucial to the show’s success, guiding viewers in discovering exceptional performers. From the insightful critiques to the emotional eliminations, the judges have been an integral part of the SYTYCD experience.
Nigel Lythgoe, a co-creator of the show alongside Simon Fuller, was a cornerstone of the judging panel from the very beginning. For sixteen seasons, his sharp wit and industry expertise were a constant presence. However, in March 2022, Lythgoe announced his departure, marking a significant shift for the show.
Mary Murphy, known for her energetic “Hot Tamale Train” critiques, also departed before Season 17 in 2022. This ushered in a new era with former contestant and All-Star Stephen “tWitch” Boss, alongside JoJo Siwa and Matthew Morrison, joining the judges’ table.
The Season 17 judging panel experienced a mid-season change when Matthew Morrison exited after what was described as a “minor infraction.” Allegations of inappropriate text messages to a contestant surfaced, which Morrison denied. Leah Remini stepped in as his replacement, bringing her enthusiasm for dance to the panel.
For the eighteenth season in 2024, SYTYCD opted for a fresh perspective, bringing in SYTYCD alum Allison Holker (Boss’ widow) and Dancing With the Stars veteran Maksim Chmerkovskiy as judges.
Let’s take a closer look at the So You Think You Can Dance judges throughout the years, exploring their tenures and the reasons behind their departures.
Nigel Lythgoe: The Long-Serving Judge
Judge for: Seasons 1-16
Reason for exit: While producers didn’t officially state the reason for Nigel Lythgoe’s departure after such a long run, Lythgoe himself indicated on social media that he “was not asked” to return for Season 17. Initially, he was slated to return for Season 18. However, in January, Nigel Lythgoe stepped down from the judging panel amidst multiple sexual assault allegations, which he has denied. His exit marked the end of an era for So You Think You Can Dance, as he had been a key figure since its inception.
Mary Murphy: The Hot Tamale Train Conductor
Judge for: Seasons 1-6, 8-11, 14-16
Reason for exit: Mary Murphy, known for her infectious energy and “Hot Tamale Train,” was a fan favorite judge. Ahead of the 2015 season (season 12), her contract was not renewed, according to her spokesperson. While she returned for seasons 14 through 16, Mary Murphy was again not asked to return for Season 17. Her absence was felt by many viewers who loved her passionate critiques and signature catchphrases.
Adam Shankman: From Mentor to Judge
Judge for: Seasons 6-7
Reason for exit: Adam Shankman, a renowned choreographer, was a mentor on So You Think You Can Dance before taking a permanent judging role in Season 6. He served as a judge for two seasons. The specific reason for Adam Shankman’s departure from the SYTYCD judging panel was not publicly disclosed. He remained active in his choreography and directing career.
Mia Michaels: The Contemporary Dance Icon
Judge for: Season 7
Reason for exit: Mia Michaels, a celebrated contemporary choreographer, was a frequent choreographer and guest judge before becoming a full-time judge in Season 7. After one season in the judge’s seat, Mia Michaels expressed a desire to explore other career opportunities. In a 2020 interview with People, Mia Michaels stated that she felt it was time to move on to new challenges after her season as a judge.
Paula Abdul: From Pop Star to Dance Judge
Judge for: Seasons 12-13
Reason for exit: Paula Abdul, known for her pop music career and judging role on American Idol, joined SYTYCD for seasons 12 and 13, replacing Mary Murphy during contract negotiations at the time. Paula Abdul’s departure after two seasons is likely attributed to scheduling conflicts. During the SYTYCD summer taping schedule, Abdul was touring on the Total Package Tour.
Jason Derulo: Adding Musicality to the Panel
Judge for: Seasons 12-13
Reason for exit: Jason Derulo, a singer and dancer, also joined the judging panel for seasons 12 and 13 alongside Paula Abdul. The specific reasons for Jason Derulo’s exit from SYTYCD are not widely known. However, he maintained a positive relationship with the show, making a special appearance in the 300th episode.
Maddie Ziegler: Representing the Next Generation
Judge for: Season 13 (SYTYCD: The Next Generation)
Reason for exit: Maddie Ziegler, known from Dance Moms, was a judge for So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation. This season featured younger contestants. Maddie Ziegler, being a teenager herself at the time, served as a relatable figure for the younger dancers. Her role was specific to The Next Generation format, which was a one-off season.
Vanessa Hudgens: Bringing Star Power
Judge for: Seasons 14-15
Reason for exit: Vanessa Hudgens, known for High School Musical, was a judge for seasons 14 and 15. No official reason was given for Vanessa Hudgens’ departure from So You Think You Can Dance. Her busy acting career likely played a role in her decision to leave after two seasons.
Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss: From Contestant to Judge
Judge for: Season 15, Season 17
Reason for exit: Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss, an SYTYCD alum and All-Star, served as a judge in Season 15 and then again in Season 17. Tragically, Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss passed away by suicide in December 2022. His passing was a profound loss to the dance community and the So You Think You Can Dance family.
Laurieann Gibson: Choreography Expertise
Judge for: Season 16
Reason for exit: Laurieann Gibson, a choreographer known for her work with numerous pop stars, was a judge in Season 16. Laurieann Gibson was initially slated to return for Season 17 alongside Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy before the pandemic. However, when the show returned post-COVID, the judging panel was revamped, and she was not included.
Dominic ‘D-Trix’ Sandoval: Representing Street Dance
Judge for: Season 16
Reason for exit: Dominic ‘D-Trix’ Sandoval, a former SYTYCD contestant and All-Star, was a judge in Season 16. Dominic ‘D-Trix’ Sandoval’s judging role was for the 2019 season. The COVID-19 pandemic halted production for subsequent seasons, leading to changes in the judging panel when the show returned.
Matthew Morrison: A Brief Tenure
Judge for: Season 17
Reason for exit: Matthew Morrison, known for Glee, was a judge for Season 17 but was ousted mid-season. Matthew Morrison’s exit was due to allegations of sending inappropriate text messages to a contestant, which he denied.
Leah Remini: Stepping In Mid-Season
Judge for: Season 17
Reason for exit: Leah Remini, a “dance enthusiast,” replaced Matthew Morrison in Season 17. Leah Remini has not publicly stated the reason for her departure from the SYTYCD judging panel after Season 17.
JoJo Siwa: Representing a New Generation of Dance
Judge for: Seasons 17-18
Reason for exit: JoJo Siwa brought a youthful perspective to the SYTYCD judging panel for seasons 17 and 18. As of the latest information available, JoJo Siwa’s departure reason after season 18 is not detailed in the provided source article.
Allison Holker: Returning to Her SYTYCD Roots
Judge for: Season 18
Reason for exit: Allison Holker, an SYTYCD alum and All-Star, joined the judging panel for Season 18. As of the article’s writing, Allison Holker’s tenure as a judge is for Season 18. Future seasons and judging panel decisions would be subsequent news.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy: Ballroom Expertise
Judge for: Season 18
Reason for exit: Maksim Chmerkovskiy, known from Dancing With the Stars, brought ballroom expertise to the SYTYCD judging panel for Season 18. Similar to Allison Holker, Maksim Chmerkovskiy’s judging role is for Season 18 as per the article. Future involvement would be dependent on show renewals and panel choices.
The So You Think You Can Dance judging panel has seen many changes over its seasons. Each judge has brought their unique expertise and personality to the show, contributing to its enduring appeal. From original judges like Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy to newer faces, the panel remains a vital part of what makes SYTYCD a beloved dance competition.
