Longtime fans of So You Think You Can Dance were recently thrilled to learn that the show has been picked up for a 12th season on Fox, but now comes the downside. Mary Murphy, who has been a regular face at the judges panel since Season 2, is reportedly getting ready to leave the show. Murphy and her "Hot Tamale Train" antics have played off fellow judge/co-producer Nigel Lythgoe perfectly, but sources say the show is looking for someone new to fill her seat and a familiar name is being circulated.
According to a report by Deadline, Paula Abdul is being eyed by Dick Clark Productions to take the prized seat. Abdul is no stranger to the show, as she has sat in the guest judge's seat on several occasions. She also successfully worked with Lythgoe on American Idol for several seasons, so it is a working relationship that is already developed, which might ultimately benefit the show if Murphy really is ready to move on.
What are your thoughts on SYTYCD over the last few seasons? It seems that at the start of every season the producers tweak the formula just enough to get another successful one on the books. Is that the key to the show's longevity? Is it time for them to mix up the judging panel a bit more? There are some guest judges who seem to be favored a little more each season, but how would Abdul do on a regular basis? While she is obviously trained, she is not the ballroom guru Murphy has always been.
If Murphy really is looking for an exit, then who do you hope fills her seat? Would it be Abdul or is there someone else whom you would rather see play off Lythgoe each week? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.
