I’m not the villain people and media portrayed me to be: Lizzo
US pop star Lizzo has firmly denied the allegations made by three of her ex-dancers, which include accusations of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. She described the past few days as "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 not to be addressed," Lizzo stated.
The legal case also involves claims of religious and racial harassment, as well as discrimination, assault, and false imprisonment.
Former dancers Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez are the ones bringing the lawsuit against Lizzo, her dance captain, and her production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring (BGBT).
The allegations include claims that the dancers were pressured into attending sex shows and interacting with other performers between 2021 and 2023.
Among the accusations against Lizzo, whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, is that she allegedly "pressured Davis to touch the breasts" of a performer in a nightclub in Amsterdam. Davis resisted initially but eventually acquiesced, fearing it might jeopardize her position on the team if she refused.
Lizzo, known for promoting body positivity and self-love, is also accused, along with dance choreographer Tanisha Scott, of fat-shaming Davis during the tour.
The singer responded to the allegations, stating, "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 criticised. Usually, I choose not to respond to false allegations, but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous not to be addressed."
Lizzo continued, "These sensationalised stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behaviour on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional."
"I am not here to be looked at as a victim, but I also know that I am not the villain that people and the media have portrayed me to be these last few days. I am very open with my sexuality and expressing myself, but I cannot accept or allow people to use that openness to make me out to be something I am not. There is nothing I take more seriously than the respect we deserve as women in the world. I know what it feels like to be body shamed on a daily basis and would absolutely never criticize or terminate an employee because of their weight."
Lizzo expressed her hurt but emphasised that she would not let the positive work she has done in the world be overshadowed by the allegations. She thanked everyone who has supported her during this challenging time.