Paula Abdul, Jason Derulo to judge 'So You Think You Can Dance'

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 24 (UPI) -- Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo have joined Nigel Lythgoe at the judges' table for Season 12 of the competition series So You Think You Can Dance, Fox announced.

Cat Deeley is to return as host of the show, which began auditions Saturday in New York.

"With the new and exciting format comes a new and exciting panel of judges," Lythgoe, who is also an executive producer on the show, said in a statement. "I'm delighted that Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo will be joining me at the judges' table this season on So You Think You Can Dance. Paula is an incredible artist and she brings the perfect combination of expertise and heart to the panel. Jason's insight, humor and creativity will add a new perspective to the panel that we haven't had before."

"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. "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 of So You Think You Can Dance," added Derulo. "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."

Season 12 will premiere this summer.