Grammy-winning artist Lizzo has finally addressed the recent lawsuit filed against her by three of her former backup dancers. In a heartfelt statement posted on social media, the 35-year-old singer expressed her deep disappointment and described the past few days as gut-wrenching. Lizzo revealed that her work ethic, morals, and respectfulness have all been questioned, which has greatly affected her.
Lizzo was quick to counter the claims made by her former employees, emphasizing that they had already admitted to their inappropriate and unprofessional behavior during their time touring with her. She labelled the allegations as sensationalized and explained that her passion for her craft is accompanied by hard work and high standards. While acknowledging that she sometimes has to make difficult decisions, Lizzo asserted that it is never her intention to make anyone feel uncomfortable or undervalued.
Refusing to be painted as the villain, Lizzo implored her fans and followers to understand that she is not the person she has been portrayed as in recent days. Despite her open expression of sexuality, she made it clear that she would not allow others to twist her openness and make her out to be someone she is not. Lizzo expressed that she places immense importance on the respect women deserve in the world, while also acknowledging her personal experience with daily body-shaming.
Standing Strong
The acclaimed artist concluded her statement by stating that she is hurt by the allegations but remains determined not to let this overshadow the positive impact she has made on the world. Lizzo expressed her gratitude to everyone who has reached out to support her during this challenging time.
Accusations and Revelations
Crystal Williams, Arianna Davis, and Noelle Rodriguez filed the lawsuit, accusing Lizzo, whose real name is Melissa Jefferson, of creating a hostile work environment, sexual harassment, and disability discrimination, among other claims. The suit detailed incidents during which Lizzo allegedly encouraged her dancers to engage in inappropriate activities at adult venues and perpetuated body-shaming.
False Pretenses in Amsterdam
The lawsuit mentioned an incident in Amsterdam’s red-light district, where Lizzo allegedly took her dancers to a club known for adult entertainment. The dancers claimed that they were urged to partake in explicit activities, such as touching nude performers and engaging with phallic props. One of the plaintiffs expressed her discomfort and refusal to participate, but Lizzo allegedly led a chant pressuring her to comply.
During a tour stop in Paris, Lizzo allegedly failed to inform her dancers that they were heading to a nude cabaret bar. The lawsuit revealed that the dancers felt pressured to attend such outings due to fear of losing their jobs or being ostracized. This incident further fueled their claims of a hostile work environment.
In April, Lizzo reportedly accused her dancers of unprofessionalism and subjected them to a grueling 12-hour re-audition process. One dancer shared that she soiled her pants out of fear of being fired if she left the audition. Another dancer, who had disclosed her struggles with binge eating, depression, and anxiety, was allegedly subjected to body-shaming from Lizzo herself.
Tensions rose even higher when Lizzo allegedly displayed aggressive behavior towards her dancers. She reportedly made threatening gestures and expletive-laden remarks, creating an uncomfortable and hostile atmosphere. Eventually, one of the dancers quit in solidarity with her friend who was fired.
Multiple Defendants
Apart from Lizzo, her production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc., and dance captain Shirlene Quigley are also named as defendants in the lawsuit. Quigley is accused of engaging in inappropriate conversations and sharing her sexual fantasies with the dancers.
Since the allegations became public, Lizzo has faced significant backlash online. However, she has also received support from others within the industry. Her former creative director and a documentary director have both spoken out against her, while Beyoncé notably omitted Lizzo’s name during a recent tour stop.
Lizzo’s response to the lawsuit filed by her former backup dancers reflects her deep disappointment and the emotional toll it has taken on her. While the allegations against her are serious, Lizzo is determined to stand strong and not let them overshadow the positive impact she has had. It remains to be seen how this legal battle will unfold and what impact it will have on Lizzo’s career going forward.
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