Paula Abdul accuses former "American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe of sexual assault in new lawsuit

Paula Abdul is accusing former "American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe of "multiple sexual assaults" and harassment while she was a judge on the program and "So You Think You Can Dance."

According to papers filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court, Abdul claims she had a strained relationship with "American Idol" producers throughout her time on the show, contending she was paid less than the male judges and subjected to taunts and bullying by show executives and employees.

"During one of `American Idol's' initial seasons, while on the road for the show's regional auditions, Lythgoe sexually assaulted Abdul," according to the court papers. "One evening, following the day's auditions, Lythgoe and Abdul entered the elevator of the hotel where they were staying. Upon entering the elevator, Lythgoe shoved Abdul against the wall, then grabbed her genitals and breasts and began shoving his tongue down her throat.