Nigel Lythgoe Knocks Down J.Lo Rumors

The latest rumor is that Jennifer Lopez is no longer in contention due to her demands, but newly appointed "Idol" producer Nigel Lythgoe says that's bunk.

"Hello? These people don't know Jennifer Lopez," Lythgoe told "Extra's" Terri Seymour at the finale of Lythgoe's other show, "So You Think You Can Dance." "She's a wonderful woman," he said. "I've never seen her be a diva in her life!"

Lythgoe also put to rest the rumor that former judge Paula Abdul might return. "I would LOVE Paula to come back," Lythgoe said. "But Paula is under contract to another company so I don't think that she enters the frame on this occasion."

As for Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler's "Idol" participation, Tyler himself answered that question when asked by the paparazzi, "I dunno. Is that the rumor you've heard? They haven't called me yet. They gotta lay out the bread for me!"

Lythgoe, however, is determined to keep it at three judges, with minimal drama. "As far as I'm concerned, I would like the attention to go on the kids, because it's about the talent that comes on this show and sings."