Jason Derulo and Paula Abdul Joining the Judges' Table of 'So You Think You Can Dance'

Host Cat Deeley will also be returning for the reality competition's 12th season

Published on January 22, 2015 02:35 PM

The upcoming season of So You Think You Can Dance just might be the biggest one yet, with new additions to the judges’ table and a new twist in the competition.

Joining executive producer Nigel Lythgoe at the table will be Jason Derulo and Paula Abdul.

While there’s no question that Derulo has a strong pedigree in music and dance himself, the series’ addition of Abdul is a real coup. Having been discovered by The Jacksons in the 1980s, Abdul went on to choreograph a number of award-winning music videos for Janet Jackson and others before launching her own successful career as a singer and dancer.

For its 12th season, SYTYCD will be making a change to the format and will pit stage dancers against street dancers.

“I have dedicated a large part of my career as a choreographer to discovering and mentoring some of the most iconic artists and performers from all over the world,” said Abdul, 52, in a statement. “So You Think You Can Dance has a long-standing history of launching brilliant careers for young choreographers and dancers in the industry. It’s going to be a true honor and pleasure joining this panel with Jason and Nigel, and I m looking forward to an exciting new season!”

“I am truly excited, and eagerly look forward to joining the cast,” added Derulo, 25. “It is one of the most respected and longest-tenured shows on network television, and I hope to be a part of new growth and continued success.”

So You Think You Can Dance returns this summer on FOX, and auditions begin as soon as Saturday in New York City, before moving on to Dallas, Texas (Feb. 14), Detroit, Michigan (Feb. 22), Memphis, Tennesse (March 8) and Los Angeles, California (March 15).