Lizzo Speaks Out on Harassment Lawsuit Filed by Former Dancers
3 min read
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Lizzo has finally addressed the harassment lawsuits filed against her by former dancers and a stylist, reflecting on the emotional toll it took on her. Speaking on Keke Palmer’s podcast, Baby, This Is Keke Palmer, on December 19, Lizzo shared her perspective on the legal battles that arose in 2023, describing the ordeal as deeply painful and unexpected.
The controversy began in August 2023 when three of Lizzo’s former backup dancers, Arianna Davis, Noelle Rodriguez, and Crystal Williams, filed a lawsuit accusing her of s*xual and racial harassment. According to the lawsuit, the dancers alleged that Lizzo pressured them to touch nude performers at an Amsterdam nightclub and shamed them for their weight. The allegations were made public through People magazine on August 2, 2023.
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A month later, on September 21, another lawsuit emerged. Asha Daniels, who worked as a wardrobe stylist for Lizzo, accused the singer of fostering a hostile work environment, alleging racism and s*xual misconduct, according to NBC News
During the podcast, Lizzo explained her initial reaction, saying she needed time to process the accusations. She described feeling “blindsided” by the lawsuits, especially because they came from individuals she had trusted and given opportunities. Reflecting on her relationship with her former dancers, Lizzo said, “These were people that I gave opportunities to… people that I liked, appreciated, and respected.”
The Grammy-winning artist revealed that the most hurtful part of the ordeal was the allegations of s*xual harassment. Addressing the claims about the Amsterdam nightclub incident, Lizzo firmly denied the accusations, stating that she did not invite the dancers to the bar and that only two of the three plaintiffs were present. She described the environment as “fun” and “consensual,” refuting the suggestion that any inappropriate pressure was involved.
Lizzo opens up about the [now dismissed] claims made by her former dancersin their sexual harassment lawsuit against her
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As the lawsuits gained media attention, Lizzo felt frustrated by the way the narrative was spun. She admitted, “The media can turn it into something it’s not,” while maintaining her innocence and insisting she had done nothing wrong.
Despite the challenges, Lizzo highlighted the lessons she learned from the experience, particularly about setting “healthy boundaries.” Reflecting on the situation, she noted that some moments require stricter professional boundaries to avoid misunderstandings.
Closing the conversation, Lizzo shared her focus on moving forward through her art. She hinted at a new album, which she revealed is already completed, signaling a fresh chapter in her career.
This candid discussion sheds light on Lizzo’s perspective amid the legal battles and underscores her commitment to learning and growing through adversity.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
