Paula Abdul looks somber as she is seen for FIRST time since accusing Nigel Lythgoe of sexual assault in bombshell lawsuit

Paula Abdul appeared solemn on Friday as she was photographed for the first time since filing a sexual assault lawsuit against American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe.

The former Idol judge, 61, accused Lythgoe, 74, of victim-shaming her and visited her lawyer's office in Los Angeles amidst the legal battle.

Last year, Abdul alleged that Lythgoe sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions between 2002 and 2015. Lythgoe has vehemently denied these claims. Wearing black shades and a studded dress, Abdul headed to her appointment with her legal team.

In response to Abdul's allegations, Lythgoe was recently spotted shopping in LA. Abdul claims she can produce text messages illustrating Lythgoe's alleged unwanted sexual advances during her time working on shows he produced.

Abdul's lawyer Melissa Eubanks accused Lythgoe of "victim-shaming" the singer. Additionally, Abdul's legal team stated they have text messages from Lythgoe, including one dated March 8, 2014, where he allegedly made inappropriate advances.

Lythgoe has submitted email communications with Abdul showing a "friendly and loving vibe" after the alleged assaults occurred. However, Eubanks argued that the power dynamic in their relationship, with Lythgoe essentially her boss, must be considered.

Abdul, who appeared on American Idol from 2002-2009, filed the lawsuit in Los Angeles on December 29, 2023. The lawsuit accuses Lythgoe of sexually assaulting her during her time working on American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance.

Abdul remained silent about the assaults for years due to fear of retaliation. The first alleged assault occurred while filming auditions for American Idol, with Abdul claiming Lythgoe groped her and tried to kiss her in an elevator. The lawsuit states that Lythgoe assaulted Abdul again years later at his home.

Abdul filed the lawsuit days before the December 31, 2023 deadline of a California law allowing victims to file lawsuits involving sexual abuse claims after the statute of limitations has expired.