CBS and Paula Abdul have confirmed that the former American Idol judge will serve as lead judge, executive producer, creative partner, mentor and coach on a new Got to Dance reality competition series the network will air.
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"I've spent the better part of my life teaching, mentoring, nurturing -- working with so many talented people -- and I consider myself truly blessed to be able to continue to do something that I hold so dear to my heart," said Abdul.
"I am thrilled to be creative partners with Reveille, Shine, and CBS and to present the best new dance talent to American audiences. Each and every week we'll showcase the challenges and successes of a fantastic group of dancers, as they perform and compete – compelling stories, exciting competition and amazing dance performances are guaranteed."
Got to Dance will start with the amateur dancers of any age, group-size and style as they audition for a judging panel led by Abdul -- which will ultimately determine who moves on to the semifinals and finals, which will air live and allow home viewers to vote for the winner.
"Paula is the perfect fit for Got to Dance -- an accomplished dancer, choreographer and popular entertainment figure, she has a real appreciation for the talents our dancers will bring each week," said CBS programming executive Jennifer Bresnan.
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"As a creative partner, her expertise will provide great insight and a nurturing, creative energy both behind the scenes and on camera."
CBS ordered Got to Dance in March and it is based on a U.K. reality series with the same name that premiered earlier this year on Sky 1. It was created by Princess Productions and Shine TV and will be produced by Reveille.
"There is no better creative partner for Got to Dance than Paula Abdul, and Reveille is thrilled to be working with such a great talent on her highly anticipated return to TV," said Reveille managing director Howard T. Owens.
"Like Paula, Got to Dance embraces and encourages real people with real talent. Paula personifies the spirit of Got to Dance and brings aspiration, compassion and mentorship to the franchise. Her commitment to the contestants and the series is a game changer."
CBS will announce Abdul's fellow judges and audition information at a later date. The tentatively-titled reality series is likely to air as midseason programming.
About The Author: Christopher Rocchio