Paula Abdul Joins New CBS Dance Competition Series

LOS ANGELES: Paula Abdul, who previously occupied a judge’s seat on American Idol, has been named executive producer, creative partner and lead judge for a new reality-competition series for CBS, tentatively titled Got to Dance.

Based on the British hit that debuted earlier this year, the talent search includes dancers of any age group, performing solo or in a group, who can perform in any style, from break dance to ballet, tap to tango. A selection of dancers will be chosen to audition for Abdul and her panel of experts, who are all world-class dancers. From there, contestants will be selected to perform live in the semi-finals and finals, and one will be crowned Got to Dance champion.

Abdul will also serve as coach, mentor and advocate for contestants during the performances and elimination process. She will provide critical input and guidance, while also sharing her personal experiences with the dancers.

Got to Dance is a Shine Group format, created by Princess Productions and Shine TV. It is produced by Reveille, and distributed by Shine International.

"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," 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, the executive VP of alternative programming at 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," added Howard T. Owens, the 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."