Simon Lythgoe

Simon Lythgoe is an Emmy-nominated producer of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance. He was born in Britain and educated at Felsted School, St. Alban's College and National Film School in Beaconsfield, England. He is the son of theatre director Bonnie Lythgoe and television executive Nigel Lythgoe.

Born in North London, England, to choreographer Nigel Lythgoe and dancer Bonnie Lythgoe, he grew up in Cuffley, Hertfordshire. After attending Keble Preparatory School in Winchmore Hill, North London, Simon later attended Felsted Boarding School in Essex. After completing 10 GCSEs, he attended Oaklands College in St. Albans for his A-Levels in Film Studies, Psychology and Art. Then Simon attended the National Film School in Beaconsfield for a number of industry courses.

Simon's career began in theatre, where at the early age of fifteen he was a stage-hand and performer in the local professional Panto at the Millfield Theatre in North London, England. For three consecutive years Simon performed and was the Assistant Stage Manager in "Jack & The Beanstalk", "Aladdin" and "Robin Hood" while simultaneously moving from theatre into television.

Upon completion of his studies worked for London Weekend Television as a senior runner and an Assistant Floor Manager. His credits include the Late Show with David Letterman, The Royal Variety Performance, Don't Forget Your Toothbrush, An Audience with ...., Gladiators, The Brian Conley Show, The Big Big Talent Show, British Comedy Awards.

In 1993 Lythgoe traveled to Australia to work on the Aussie version of Gladiators for Kevin Jacobson Productions. The monthlong engagement turned into a yearlong commitment, when Lythgoe decided to stay in Sydney working for the Seven Network. His titles ranged from 3rd Assistant Director to Floor Manager, and later a Researcher and then Associate Producer.

After a year Lythgoe returned to London, England. He worked as the 1st Assistant Director for Sky's drama series Dream Team, produced by Hewland International. During this time he also attended the National Film and Television School.

After completing the first series, Lythgoe emigrated permanently to Sydney, Australia. Returning to the Seven Network he worked on the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Roy & HG's Money, The Monday Dump, Saturday Disney, House of Hits, The Morning Shift, Big Arvo, People's Choice Awards, along with numerous sports events including the Bledisloe Cup, AFL, Super 12 Rugby, the Lions Tour.

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