'Hairspray' director becomes full-time 'So You Think You Can Dance' judge

Adam Shankman, a regular guest judge and occasional choreographer on FOX's "So You Think You Can Dance," will take a permanent role on the show's judging panel in its sixth season.

FOX announced on Wednesday (Sept. 16) that Shankman will join Mary Murphy and Nigel Lythgoe as a full-time evaluator when "So You Think You Can Dance" begins its Top 20 performances on Tuesday, Oct. 27. Shankman has already been seen as a guest judge in the early "SYTYCD" auditions this season.

With Murphy and Lythgoe serving as the only two regular "SYTYCD" judges, Shankman has been part of a revolving group of familiar guests, including Debbie Allen, Mandy Moore, Tyce Diorio, Mia Michaels, Tabitha & Napoleon and the inscrutable Christopher "Lil C" Toler.

"'So You Think You Can Dance' is one of the most important things to happen in the last decade for the art form," says Shankman in the FOX release. "Choreography is how I found my way into this business, and I’m proud to be a part of the show. As a filmmaker, it’s an honor to be able to recognize choreographers and dancers, and to be able to bring all of this amazing work into America’s homes. These kids challenge themselves every week, and it’s great for people to see how terrific these dancers are."

Best known as the director of hit films including "The Pacifier," "Bringing Down the House" and "Hairspray," Shankman is also a successful producer, using that power to work multiple "So You Think You Can Dance" veterans into the upcoming "Step Up 3-D."

"I am extremely happy that Adam has agreed to be a resident judge," says Lythgoe, the show's executive producer and co-creator, in addition to judge. "We love bantering and bickering, and yet he still finds a way of capturing the sensitivity of every story told on stage. He is a consummate professional with a passion for dance and a discerning eye, which makes him perfect for us. Plus, it must be remembered, it takes a slightly crazy person to work with me and Mary."

Lythgoe was already scheduled to do a press conference with reporters on Wednesday, so we'll provide updates on the fate of the revolving guest judges and more later in the day.