'So You Think You Can Dance' Renewed, New Twist Featuring Next-Generation Dancers

After months of speculation, it has been confirmed that "So You Think You Can Dance" will return to FOX for a 13th season, only this time with a brand new twist featuring kid dancers.

FOX announced on Monday that "So You Think You Can Dance: Next Generation" will feature a younger generation of dancers between the ages of 8 and 13 who are skilled in various dance styles from tap to ballroom to hip-hop. These kids will then be paired up with All-Stars to compete for the title of America's Favorite Dancer.

"We are so happy to bring back the award-winning 'So You Think You Can Dance' for a 13th season this summer with a brand-new format," said David Madden, President of Entertainment, FOX Broadcasting Company. "The series has captivated its loyal fan base for over a decade, inspiring young dancers across the country and transforming the face of dance in every medium-and we're so excited to feature a young and talented new group of performers on the series."

"Through the Drizzy Feet Foundation, I've had the privilege of working with incredible young talent who will eventually shape the future of dance in this country," co-creator and executive producer Nigel Lythgoe added. "By evolving the 'So You Think You Can Dance' format this season, we can showcase the very best junior dancers out there and open up the world of dance to a whole new generation."

Host Cat Deeley will be returning alongside judges Nigel Lythgoe, Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo.

Just last month, rumors about a junior edition of the show started going around as people began to wonder if the show would be returning or not. "We hope it will return," FOX chairman Dana Walden said on Jan. 15, according to Deadline. "We're not finished in our conversations with the producers, but we love the show and hope and anticipate that it will be coming back...We would see some changed-how significant you perceive them is up to you. It won't fundamentally change the show, it will just give it a little bit of a spin."

Now that it's official, auditions will begin later this month in three cities including Los Angeles on Feb. 27, Chicago on March 11 and New York on March 18. Season 13 of "SYTYCD" will then premiere on Monday, May 30 at 8:00 p.m. ET on FOX.

Tags

So You Think You Can Dance, Paula Abdul, Jason Derulo