Nasty Nigel says Honesty is Key

 
Sitting down with Ivan Fecan, President and CEO of CTVglobemedia and CTV Inc, Nigel Lythgoe likened the structure of his hit shows, American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance to "a jigsaw puzzle with no picture on the box." Resisting early attempts to script the shows, Lythgoe sees that commitment to honesty as the key to their success.
 
In a keynote address at BANFF 2010 on Monday, June 14th at the Fairmount Banff Springs Hotel, Executive Producer and Judge on the Emmy award-winning program, So You Think You Can Dance, Lythgoe discussed the early struggles in trying to bring the British-born format of "Pop Stars" to the US market. In England, Lythgoe became known as "Nasty Nigel" for his frank critiques of participant’s performances and American networks didn’t believe it would work in their market. The stellar success of both American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance has proven that this honesty works and has lead to a slew of imitators trying to build on their winning formula.
 
Lythgoe sees his shows as distinct because it’s always been about delivering for the audience. "You have to throw out these little emotional hooks and then reel them in." It’s a strategy that’s made him an international celebrity, a position he embraces with a great sense of humour. Despite his fame and accolades, Lythgoe believes in keeping grounded and the importance of teamwork, priding himself on telling his team when they’re doing well. 
 
As for Lythgoe's future? "For me, the interactivity is the key." Audience participation has always been an integral part of the shows and he thinks the future of television will rest on interaction with the audience. Lythgoe accepted the Award of Excellence at the Alberta Film Awards Lunch today. 
 

Kevin Fraser