Paula Abdul

Personal context

Summary

Paula Abdul is a singer, dancer, choreographer, actress, and television personality, known for hits including “Straight Up,” choreography for Janet Jackson’s videos, and judging American Idol. Her career centers on dance, pop performance, and mentoring talent; she has also spoken repeatedly about supporting LGBTQ people, including through Pride events and HIV awareness work. She has described American Idol as broadening musical diversity and said she stands with the LGBTQ community. After filing a sexual assault lawsuit against producer Nigel Lythgoe, which was settled in 2024, she said she hoped her experience would encourage other women facing similar struggles.