Paula Abdul Has 'Got to Dance'

Sep 24th, 2010

The former "American Idol" judge will be the executive producer, creative partner, mentor, coach and lead judge of the upcoming CBS reality dance competition series.

Live to Dance Judge, Paula Abdul

NEW YORK, NY — Paula Abdul, an award-winning dancer/choreographer, dynamic performer, multi-platinum recording artist and popular entertainment personality, has been named an executive producer, creative partner and lead judge for "Got to Dance" (working title), a new reality-competition series for CBS. She will also serve as coach, mentor and advocate for contestants during the performances and elimination process, providing critical input and guidance while sharing her experience with hopeful contestants.

"Got to Dance" is based on the British hit that debuted earlier this year and has been a ratings sensation for Britain's Sky 1, making it one of the UK's top-rated pay TV series this season. In the most inclusive talent search on television, amateurs with raw talent of any age group from across the nation (either performing solo or in a group) can audition any form of dancing - from ballroom to break dance, bhangra to ballet and tap to tango. The most talented and entertaining dancers will be invited to audition for Abdul and her panel of experts, all world-class dancers themselves. The very best will perform live in the Semi-Finals and Finals, where they will battle for the right to be crowned "Got to Dance" champion.

"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," Paula Abdul commented. "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."

"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 Jennifer Bresnan, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming, CBS Entertainment. "As a creative partner, her expertise will provide great insight and a nurturing, creative energy both behind the scenes and on camera."

"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 Howard T. Owens, Managing Director at Reveille. "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."

In a successful career that spans more than three decades, Abdul has sold over 60 million records worldwide, and earned Emmy, Grammy, American Music and MTV Awards. Abdul has conquered the gamut of entertainment after beginning her career as a highly sought-after choreographer and dancer for films, television and music videos. She then segued into an award-winning recording artist, and most recently became a much-celebrated television personality, especially in her eight-year role as a mentor and judge on "American Idol."

The additional expert judges, as well as information regarding auditions, will be announced at a later date. Details on the audition process will also be available on CBS.com.

"Got to Dance" is a Shine Group format, created by Princess Productions and Shine TV and is produced by Reveille. Paula Abdul, Elisabeth Murdoch, Howard T. Owens, Mark Koops and Robin Ashbrook are executive producers. Distribution is handled by Shine International.

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