So You Think You Can Dance creator and former judge Nigel Lythgoe has commented on JoJo Siwa’s judging performance during Season 17. Siwa has received criticism on social media, but Lythgoe had nothing but positive things to say.
Nigel Lythgoe Praises ‘SYTYCD’ Judge JoJo Siwa
Nigel Lythgoe sat on the SYTYCD judging panel for 16 seasons. Last week, he took to Twitter to share his thoughts on new judge JoJo Siwa’s performance on the show. Siwa has been the subject of some negativity from viewers who question her credentials and dislike her personality.
“I believe @Jojosiwa not only gives great dance critiques on #SYTYCD but her social comments are spot on too,” Lythgoe wrote. “She is a great asset to the program along with [Stephen “tWitch” Boss]. Keep up the good work guys.”
Over the weekend, Siwa retweeted Lythgoe’s kind words, adding, “This means so much.” She also posted a heart and a prayer hands emoji in response.
However, Lythgoe’s praise didn’t stop some Twitter users from reiterating their issues with Siwa’s judging. One fan wrote that they “miss the technical critiques” Lythgoe and fellow former judge Mary Murphy gave. Another wrote that Siwa “takes an immature approach in her disagreements with the other judges.”
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Siwa Recently Defended Herself Against Haters
Siwa herself has also spoken out against critics who question her position as judge on the show. She’s even responded to people directly on Twitter, at one point writing, “If you don’t like me that’s okay… but if you think I don’t know about dance ya just sound silly.”
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she pointed out that she “grew up in a dance studio” and competed on Dancing with the Stars. She added that she may not be “the most knowledgeable dancer in the world,” but she is absolutely “smart enough” to be a judge on SYTYCD.
Season 17 hasn’t gone smoothly. Not only was judge Matthew Morrison replaced in the middle of the season by new judge Leah Remini, but fans are angry over not being able to vote for their favorite dancers from home.
