Lady Gaga Presents Nigel Lythgoe With International Emmy Award

Lady Gaga surprised So You Think You Can Dance and American Idol boss Nigel Lythgoe with a Founders Award at the 39th International Emmys.

our editor recommends

Lady Gaga's Thanksgiving Special Includes Tony Bennett, Turkey Carving (Video)

Lady Gaga's Former Creative Director Laurieann Gibson Speaks Out on Split (Exclusive)

'American Idol's' Nigel Lythgoe Slams Twitter Followers Over 'X Factor'

PHOTOS: International Emmy Awards 2011

Wearing a black dress and enormous black sunglasses, the pop star took the stage inside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan, where she spoke of Lythgoe’s contributions to TV and entertainment around the world. She also made mention of the $140 million he has given in charitable donations.

Gaga introduced Lythgoe as her "favorite producer," saying, "He always helped to nurture and foster my crazy ideas, no matter how demographically unfriendly they were." The "Marry the Night" singer has made a number of appearances on Lythgoe's programs in the years since her "Just Dance" debut.

PHOTOS: Lady Gaga's Fashion Forward Style

"I am honored to be here tonight, and I have shared many laughs with him on the side of the stage in my crazy outfits," she added.

Lythgoe reciprocated Gaga's admiration, as he took the podium to accept his award.

"To be presented with this award by Lady Gaga is just astounding," he gushed. "She certainly, for my money, is the most creatively talented woman in show business right now."

PHOTOS: Top 10 Highest Paid Music Artists

Last year, News Corp. chairman Rupert Murdoch served as the surprise presenter, honoring Simon Cowell for his massive contributions to Fox Broadcasting over the years.