So You Think You Can Dance judge and Emmy winner Mia Michaels is giving up her seat as a judge on the reality dance competition. She’s best known for her contemporary dance style, having choreographed for celebrities such as Ricky Martin, Celine Dion and Madonna.

Here’s what she had to say about her departure from the reality show:

“Last year when I was sitting on the [judges] panel, I knew it wasn’t the right fit because I felt too glossy sitting on the panel. People were so focused on what I wore and my hair. I wanted to get dirty and back to the work. I am an artist and I’m a visionary. I need to paint my world now and not be constantly linked to So You think You Can Dance.”

And it’s not that she isn’t grateful for her time on the show:

“It’s been a great platform. It was a wonderful platform. I’m staring at [my] two Emmys right now. It was an amazing, amazing thing for me but I feel like I have to fly. I have to now focus on Mia’s world.”

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She added:

“I heard they’re bringing Mary Murphy back and I’m really happy for her,” Michaels says. “I’ve sat in that chair, but I feel like that was Mary’s chair.”

And don’t worry, Mia has plenty to work on. She’s writing a memoir, starring in an upcoming Bravo reality show and developing a Broadway show.

We’ll miss you, Mia!

[image: WENN]