By Ashley Thompson

Mary Murphy is out and Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo are in! Paula and Jason will be joining Nygel Lythgoe at the judges' table along with Cat Deeley returning as host for the 12th season of So You Think You Can Dance.

You might remember Paula from her pop days in the 80's and 90's and her stint as the emotional judge on American Idol (working with Nigel Lythgoe then, too). Paula Abdul is a singer-songwriter, choreographer, dancer, television personality and actress. Nigel said, "Paula is an incredible artist and she brings the perfect combination of expertise and heart to the panel." She was also recently the lead judge on So You Think You Can Dance Australia. "I have dedicated a large part of my career as a choreographer to discovering and mentoring some of the most iconic artists and performers from all over the world," says Paula. "So You Think You Can Dance has a long-standing history of launching brilliant careers for young choreographers and dancers in the industry. It's going to be a true honor and pleasure joining this panel with Jason and Nigel, and I'm looking forward to an exciting new season!"

Jason Derulo is a singer-songwriter, dancer, choreographer and rapper, wining MTV Music Video Awards for his talents. You've probably heard his many popular singles on the radio. He has sold more than 45 million records worldwide and has a popular YouTube channel. "I am truly excited and eagerly look forward to joining the cast of So You Think You Can Dance," he said To Fox. "It is one of the most respected and longest-tenured shows on network television, and I hope to be a part of new growth and continued success."

What's this "new growth" Jason speaks of? Season 12 will feature stage dancers vs street dancers. You may recall from last season that they had the street crews battling for air time, but this is different. Fox announced that dancers who advance will be placed into two teams: street dancers will be skilled in hip-hop, animation or breaking. While stage dancers will feature contemporary, ballet, jazz or tap. All-star dancers along with the judges will eliminate dancers until the Top 20, 10 street and 10 stage. When the show is 'live' they will perform a variety of styles weekly, with one being eliminated.

Photo credit: FOX