Lythgoe's re-admittance to the show comes at a time when the show will need some revamping, in the wake of the departure of judges Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres.
Lythgoe said in a statement, “'American Idol' became a juggernaut of epic proportions, but to me it was always like home. I am elated and honored to be rejoining childhood friend and fellow executive producer Ken Warwick, and look forward to creating more magic.”?
Lythgoe also worked on the British series "Pop Idol," and was a co-creator and serves as executive producer of "So You Think You Can Dance."
The tenth season of "American Idol" will begin in January on Fox.