IATAS to fete Nigel Lythgoe

The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is set to present British producer Nigel Lythgoe with a 2011 founders award. Lythgoe, exec producer of "American Idol" and e.p. and co-creator of "So You Think You Can Dance," will receive the kudo at the 39th annual International Emmys gala in Gotham on Nov. 21. Lythgoe began his showbiz career as a professional dancer and choreographer, starting out in the corps de ballet for the national tour of "The Merry Widow" and moving on to choreograph the BBC's "Young Generation" company, among many others. As a television choreographer, he collaborated with performers ranging from Ben Vereen and Shirley Bassey to the Muppets. As a producer, Lythgoe's credits include "Gladiators" and "Blind Date," as well as the U.K. incarnation of "Survivor;" Lythgoe joined Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment group, where he produced "Pop Idol" -- the show that would spawn "American Idol." Most recently, he launched "CMT's Next Superstar," and is involved with charities including Dizzy Feet, which provides scholarships to young dancers and works to provide dance education in underprivileged communities. "This is a true honor," Lythgoe said. "The world of television is becoming increasingly more global, and I am grateful that The International Academy is recognizing the growing importance of performing arts and dance on television throughout the world." Contact Sam Thielman at sam.thielman@variety.com