In Summary
- Lizzo responds to harassment allegationns made against her.
- The Pop star has responded to the allegations made against her by three of her former dancers, including sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment, saying they are “false” accusations.
American pop star Lizzo has responded to the allegations made against her by three of her former dancers, including sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment, saying they are “false” accusations.
The ‘Truth Hurts’ singer called the last few days “gut-wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing”.
“Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed.”
The lawsuit also includes accusations of religious and racial harassment. Discrimination, assault and false imprisonment are also listed in the legal case.
Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez are the former dancers bringing the case against the singer, her dance captain and her production company Big Grrrl Big Touring (BGBT).
The legal action, filed in Los Angeles on Tuesday, includes allegations the dancers were pressured into attending sex shows and interacting with the dancers at the shows between 2021 and 2023.
Among the claims against Lizzo – whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson – are that she “pressured Ms Davis to touch the breasts” of a performer in a nightclub in Amsterdam, and Ms Davis – after resisting – eventually acquiesced “fearing it may harm her future on the team” if she didn’t do so.
Lizzo – who is known for celebrating her body and self-love – is also accused, along with dance choreographer Tanisha Scott, of fat-shaming Ms Davis on tour.
Lizzo’s Statement
Through a statement on her social media pages, the singer claims that the her character has been criticized.
“These last few days have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing. My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticized.
“Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed. These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.” Reads part of the statement.
Lizzo finishes off by thanking everyone who has stood by her side during this moment as she battles the harassment allegations.
“I’m hurt but I will not let the good work I’ve done in the world be overshadowed by this. I want to thank everyone who has reached out in support to lift me up during this difficult time.”
