MUMBAI: Shine America has entered into an exclusive, multi-year production partnership with Nigel Lythgoe Productions, owned and operated by the executive producer behind such hits as ?American Idol? and ?So You Think You Can Dance?, to cooperatively develop and produce entertainment franchises with the Shine Group for the global TV marketplace.

Nigel Lythgoe Productions will continue to be based in Los Angeles.

The deal, which commences on 1 January 2013, was brokered by ICM Partners and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein and Lezcano.

Shine Group chairman Elisabeth Murdoch said, "I have known and admired Nigel for a long time. He is one of the world?s most talented, accomplished and respected programme makers. The creative potential of our partnership is truly staggering and I am more than delighted to be able to be working with him."