Musician Lizzo, 36, has broken her silence about being sued for alleged sexual misconduct and creating a hostile workplace environment.
The accusations, brought forward by three former dancers in August 2023, shocked fans and sparked widespread media coverage. The lawsuit alleged sexual and racial harassment, and weight-shaming, and claims that Lizzo pressured dancers into uncomfortable situations, including touching nude performers and engaging in explicit acts at a nightclub.
In an in-depth interview on the "Baby, This is Keke Palmer" podcast, Lizzo addressed the allegations, describing the experience as a blindsiding and deeply hurtful chapter in her career.
“2023 was an amazing year for me,” Lizzo reflected. “I had a career-high with ‘About Damn Time’ winning Record of the Year at the Grammys. I completed my first arena tour and brought the incredible ‘Big Grrrl’ dancers from 'Watch Out for the Big Grrrls' on stage every night. I was literally living my dream. Then the tour ended, and three ex-dancers completely blindsided me with a lawsuit.”
Lizzo expressed her shock at the lawsuit, stating she had no warning the dancers were planning legal action. “These were people I gave opportunities to, people I respected and appreciated as dancers,” she said. “Hearing accusations like sexual harassment was deeply hurtful. I don’t know what their intentions are, but I feel like the media has twisted things into something they’re not.”
The former dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, filed their lawsuit against Lizzo and her Big Grrrl Big Touring company, citing an alleged incident at a nightclub. Lizzo denied forcing anyone to participate in the outing and maintained it was optional.
“Let’s be clear, I did nothing wrong,” Lizzo said firmly. “I have no regrets, but this has been a learning experience preparing me for the boss I’m becoming.”
Despite denying all allegations, Lizzo has faced additional accusations from others since the lawsuit was filed. One case has already been dismissed, but the lawsuit from the three dancers appears to be heading to trial.
Ron Zambrano, the plaintiffs’ attorney, responded to Lizzo’s comments in a statement to "Page Six": “There is an utter lack of awareness from Lizzo, failing to see how young women on her team, just starting their careers, would feel pressured to accept an invitation from their globally famous boss. The power dynamic in a boss-employee relationship is something Lizzo fails to appreciate. We stand by our claims and are prepared to prove everything in court.”
Lizzo has refused to settle and continues to fight what she calls “false” allegations, determined to clear her name.
IOL Entertainment