The hot tamale train has arrived – again! Mary Murphy is returning to “So You Think You Can Dance” after a two-season absence, Fox announced on Thursday.
According to a press release, Mary will rejoin Executive Producer Nigel Lythgoe at the Season 14 judges’ table along with an as-yet-unnamed third judge. Fan favorite Cat Deeley will also be back as host.
“I am thrilled that Mary will return to ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and I’m sure the fans will be, as well,” Nigel said in a statement. “She brings an energy and enthusiasm that’s contagious and I can’t wait for her to join me on the judging panel.”
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Nigel also teased how he’s preparing to welcome Mary’s signature passion back to set.
“I’ve got a pair of earplugs ready,” he joked.
Pop star Jason Derulo and Paula Abdul have rounded out the judges’ roster alongside Nigel since 2015, with “Dance Moms” alum Maddie Ziegler filling a fourth seat last season.
Ballroom dance champion Mary was part of the show’s original on-air lineup, starting as a choreographer and guest judge in 2005.
Following Season 13’s focus on child contestants, the reality competition will once again feature dancers between the ages of 18 and 30.
Season 14 of “So You Think You Dance” will premiere this summer on Fox. Open auditions kick off March 4 in New York City.
— Erin Biglow