Lizzo is accused of weight-shaming and sexual harassment.
Popular pop star Lizzo, known for promoting body positivity and self-love, is facing serious allegations in a civil lawsuit filed by three of her former dancers. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles, accuses the singer and her production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring Inc., of sexual harassment, religious and racial discrimination, weight-shaming, and creating a hostile work environment. The allegations have sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, as they seem to contradict Lizzo’s public image of empowerment and inclusivity.
The Allegations
The lawsuit, brought by Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, covers a range of accusations spanning the period from 2021 to 2023. The plaintiffs claim that they endured sexually denigrating behavior and were forced to participate in disturbing sex shows during their time with Lizzo’s dance team. One notable accusation involves Lizzo pressuring Arianna Davis to touch the breasts of a performer at a nightclub in Amsterdam. Davis, feeling coerced to comply, eventually acquiesced, fearing that refusing might harm her standing on the team.
In addition to the sexual harassment allegations, Lizzo is also accused, along with her dance choreographer Tanisha Scott, of weight-shaming Arianna Davis during their tour. The lawsuit states that Davis felt the need to explain her weight gain and disclose personal details to retain her job, creating a demoralizing and unhealthy work environment.
Further accusations are leveled against the dance team’s captain, Shirlene Quigley, who is alleged to have pushed her Christian beliefs on the dancers and discussed intimate personal details, including one dancer’s virginity, both in person and on social media.
The lawsuit also claims that black members of the dance troop faced racial discrimination, being treated differently and subjected to unfair and disparaging remarks, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Compensation and Employment Conditions
The plaintiffs also assert that they were not adequately compensated during Lizzo’s European tour. They claim to have received only 25% of their weekly pay while not performing on the tour, while other performers received 50%. Additionally, they were allegedly discouraged from working on other projects while on tour, limiting their financial opportunities.
Response and Impact
Lizzo and the accused parties have been approached for comment, but as of the date of the news report, no official statements have been made in response to the allegations. The impact of the lawsuit on Lizzo’s career and reputation remains uncertain. The singer, known for her body-positive image, may face scrutiny and damage to her public image if the allegations are proven true.
Conclusion
The allegations of sexual harassment, weight-shaming, and discrimination brought against Lizzo are serious and warrant thorough investigation. While the lawsuit is yet to be resolved, the accusations have raised questions about the dissonance between Lizzo’s public persona and her alleged conduct in private. As the legal proceedings unfold, the music industry and Lizzo’s fans await further developments to understand the potential impact on her career and advocacy for body positivity.